Lauri J. 'Tuggers' Koski

WAKEFIELD, Mich. — Lauri J. “Tuggers” Koski, 86, of Powderhorn Road, Bessemer Township, died Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2013, in Wakefield.

He was born Dec. 8, 1926, in the Puritan Location of Bessemer Township, son of the late Jacob and Hannah (Ronkonen) Koski. Lauri attended the Puritan schools and A.D. Johnston High School in Bessemer.

During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army from March 27, 1945, until Dec. 27, 1946. Lauri was decorated with the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan) and the Victory Medal.

Lauri operated a gas station in Bessemer with his brother (Koski Brothers). He was also employed at the Eureka Mine in Ramsay and the Peterson Mine. He worked in construction, various sawmills and was employed at the White Pine Copper Mine until retirement.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting and especially storytelling. He had a special interest in wood carving and furniture making. Lauri built his own house and sauna. He was invited to Michigan State University to demonstrate his skills of sauna building.

Lauri was a life member of VFW Post 3673 in Bessemer.

On Nov. 5, 1955, he was married to the former Agnes Zorich at the Zion Lutheran Church in Ironwood by Rev. Maki. Agnes preceded him in death on May 5, 2005.

He is survived by a son, Larry (Cindy), of Ironwood; a daughter, Heidi (John “Jack”) Bretall, of Bessemer; and three grandchildren, Nicole and Mark Bretall and Ryan Koski. Many nieces, nephews and relatives survive.

Besides his parents and wife, Lauri was preceded in death by brothers, Neilo, Elmer and Aaki; and two grandsons, James and Jack.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Aug. 21, at the Frick-Zielinski Funeral Home, 304 S. Sophie St., Bessemer, at 11 a.m. The Rev. Gary Grabow will officiate.

Full military rites will be accorded by Bessemer VFW Post 3673 and American Legion Post 27 combined Honor Guard.

Lauri’s family will receive relatives and friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Burial will be in the Hillcrest Cemetery.

Range Funeral Service and Crematory and the Frick-Zielinski Funeral Home of Bessemer is in charge of arrangements.