Wilbert E. Luoma

HURLEY, Wis. - Wilbert E. Luoma, age 91, of Saxon, passed away on Feb. 27, 2018 at a local nursing home.

Wilbert was born on March 14, 1926, in Ironwood, Michigan, to Emil and Alina (Ekron) Luoma. He graduated as salutatorian of Saxon School. He served his country honorably during World War II in the Pacific Theater with the 528th Field Artillery Unit. He was a member of the American Legion in Saxon.

On June 11, 1949, he married Louise Mazner and she survives him. Even though the car they were riding in broke down on the way to the ceremony, they went on to enjoy 68 years together, raising seven children. Wilbert loved his family more than anything. He taught his children many life lessons, including a hard work ethic, great family values and to always love each other. He also loved his dog and going for walks. He had a huge collection of movies he loved to watch. He also loved dancing with his wife, traveling, camping, snowmobiling and spending time in the outdoors. He was a former member of the Saxon-Gurney Presbyterian Church.

Wilbert was known as a tinkerer who could fix almost anything. If he couldn't fix something, he could probably turn it in to a "work of art." In his life, he worked as a farmer, a mine worker at the Penokee Mine and as a repair and delivery man for Johnson Music Store. After his retirement, he continued to work as the town of Saxon recycling clerk, where he made many more new friends.

He will be sadly missed by his wife, Louise, his children: Trudy and Joe Pinardi, of Hurley; Gloria and Jim Rowe, of Gurney; Diane and Dale Ofstad, of Gurney; Mike and Laura Luoma, of Saxon; JoAnna and Jeff Krone, of Hurley, Janette and Lee Vuorenmaa, of Hurley, Jeri Lynn Luoma, of Saxon, 19 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, with one on the way, and his dog, Diesel, as well as many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

At Wilbert's request, private services will be held.

The family would like to thank the staff and nurses of Villa Maria Nursing Home and Aspirus of Ironwood Hospital for the wonderful care given to Wilbert.

Ketola-Burla Funeral Home is assisting the family.

For more information or to express condolences, please visit rangefuneralservices.com.