Donald M. Kangas

HURLEY, Wis. - Donald M. Kangas, 81, lifelong Hurley area resident, passed away in Hurley on Jan. 8, 2019.

He was born in South Carey to Matt and Taimi (Rosenberg) Kangas, delivered by a midwife who was his paternal grandmother, Eva. Growing up in South Carey and the family cottage at Island Lake, Don developed his love of the woods while he logged, hunted, fished and trapped.

Don attended local schools and graduated from J. E. Murphy High School with the class of 1956. Don and Juliette Casanova were married at St. Mary's Church and would have celebrated 62 years of marriage in February. He was employed as a welder for several years. He also worked for Pisani's Range Beverage and Angelo Luppino Inc. for 32 years until his retirement in 1999.

Don played baseball and softball for many years and enjoyed watching sports. He was available to help his friends, neighbors, and anyone who needed a hand or a pull out of a snowbank. His many skills and his quiet, kind demeanor will be missed.

Don is survived by his wife, Juliette; children Mark (Nancy), Susan (Mark) Rajala, and Gary; grandchildren, Ross, Abby, Emily, Chelsea, and Natalie; sister-in-law, Diane Kangas, brother- and sister-in-law, Caz and Sharon Casanova; several nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many friends.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his sister, Dorothy Bodah; his brother, Darrell Kangas; mother-in-law, Mary Casanova; father-in-law, Nicholas Casanova; sister- and brother-in-law, Jeanne and Bob Ellis, and other family members.

Thank you to the entire Villa Maria staff for the conscientious care and concern given to Don; to Hospice; to the American Legion Auxiliary of Ironwood, Bessemer Post 27, Ladies' Auxiliary, and Hurley Chamber of Commerce for the gifts they deliver to residents of the Villa. Thank you to the groups in the community who provide programs for the residents and family members.

A graveside service will be held this spring.

Memorial donations may be made to an organization of your choice.

Ketola-Burla Funeral Home of Ironwood is assisting the family with arrangements.

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