Robert E. Besonen

EWEN, Mich. - Robert E. Besonen, 89, of Ewen, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, with his loving wife at his side.

Robert was born on Dec. 28, 1928, in Duncan Township to Alex and Tynne (Laturi) Besonen. He married the former Rachel Juntila in National Mine on Oct. 16, 1952, and celebrated 66 years of marriage this fall.

Robert worked for the White Pine Copper Mine for 34 years, retiring in 1991. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army and served in the Korean Conflict from 1950 to 1952. He was honorably discharged in 1952. Robert loved to travel, including trips to Hawaii, Finland (twice), and spending winters in Texas with his family.

Robert is survived by his wife, Rachel; two sons, Rodney (Marnie), Marquette, and Robert (Wendy), Green Bay, Wis .; a daughter, Rosena Gerometta, Tyler, Texas; three grandchildren, John (Lindsey) Besonen, Marquette, and Tony (Erin) Gerometta and Nicholas (Valerie) Gerometta, both of Tyler, Texas; his great-grandchildren, Gavin and Eli Gerometta; a brother-in-law, Ray Kauppila; and numerous nephews, nieces and friends.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Edwin Besonen, sisters, Irene Kauppila and Nancy Razynski.

Robert's family would like to extend sincere thanks to SONCO Ambulance, neighbors and friends - especially Jim Ojala and Eugene and Alice Johnson.

Visitation will take place at First Lutheran Church, Ewen, from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 7, with Pastor Kay Richter officiating. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. at the church, followed by a brief graveside ceremony. Lunch will be served at the church after the graveside service.

Arrangements are being made by Cane Funeral Home.