Rudolph 'Gutch' Frank Vukelich

IRONWOOD, Mich. — Rudolph “Gutch” Frank Vukelich, 83, of Ironwood, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2015, at Aspirus Grand View Hospital in Ironwood.

He was born Nov. 13, 1931, in Ironwood, the son of Joseph and Anna (Bether) Vukelich.

Rudy attended Newport Elementary School and graduated from Luther L. Wright High School in 1952.

Shortly after graduation, Rudy enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was stationed in Seattle and later in San Diego, where he was MP during the Korean War. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.

Rudy was honorably discharged in May of 1954. He returned to Ironwood, where he met his wife of 48 years, Diane “Dinah” Marie Hughes. On Sept. 28, 1956, they were married. In 1959, they packed up their two sons, Rory and Bart, and moved to New Mexico, where Rudy worked in a uranium mine. Two years later, they returned to Ironwood and owned and operated “Gutch and Dinah’s Bar” in Iron Belt, Wis.

In 1961, they had their third son, Brad. Five years later, they had a fourth child, their first daughter, Krystal. Then in 1969, their fifth child was born, whom Rudy delivered himself at home.

Rudy also worked in the woods for a time until he became disabled in 1974. After becoming disabled, Rudy stayed at home to help raise their remaining children and then grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rudy adored and loved when they would all come over to play. Rudy didn’t like a quiet house. As a matter of fact, the more noise and commotion seemed to relax him.

He is survived by his five children, Rory (Tina Shannon) Vukelich, Bart (Tina) Vukelich, Brad (Anne) Vukelich, Krystal (Scott) Clark and Heidi (Robert) Vukelich-Brentar; 11 grandchildren, Jamie Vukelich, Nichole Pertile, Cory Vukelich, Mark Vukelich, LaChrista Vukelich, Samee Vukelich, Cassandra Kirkly, Kaitlyn Mitchem, Deanna Clark, Zachary Brentar and Brianna Brentar; nine great-grandchildren, with two more on the way; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rudy was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Diane, on Oct. 26, 2004; two brothers, John (Jessie) Vukelich and Joseph (Bobo) Vukelich; and his sister, Mary Binczak-Klein.

Out of respect for Rudy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family service will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent to 323 Bluejacket St, Ironwood, MI, 49938.

The family would like to thank the wonderful aides of Aspirus Home Health who took such good care of him the last few years. He looked forward to those visits. Rudy will be greatly missed by all, with his sense of humor and that little “wink-wink” he would give you.

Range Funeral Service and Crematory, Ketola-Burla Funeral Home of Ironwood, is assisting the family with arrangements.