Francis 'Frank' Joseph Rimkus Jr.

IRONWOOD, Mich. - Francis "Frank" Joseph Rimkus Jr., 91, of Ironwood, died peacefully Sunday morning, March 14, 2021, at Westgate Nursing, Rehabilitation and Assisted Living Community in Ironwood.

Frank was born Dec. 10, 1929, in Ironwood, the son of Francis "Frank" Joseph Rimkus Sr. and Leocadia (Koleski) Rimkus. He attended Ironwood Schools and graduated from Luther L. Wright High School in 1947. A few years later, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served admirably during the Korean War.

He was married to the former Alida Plumley in 1964.

Frank was a member of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Ironwood and the Ironwood American Legion Post 5. He spent all his working years in the Peterson Mine and Copper Range Mine until his retirement in 1993.

Frank spent a majority of his time outdoors either fishing, hunting or tinkering around in his yard or one of his numerous beloved gardens. He also enjoyed many years of bowling and horseshoes, both of which he enjoyed doing well into his 80s. He was an avid Green Bay Packers and Detroit Tigers fan.

Surviving are Alida; a daughter, Donna LaChapelle, Ironwood; two sons, Joseph and Michael (Karin), both of Ironwood; eight grandchildren, Kristin (Kyle) Anderson, Cloquet, Minnesota, Nick (Gabriella) Hellen, San Antonio, Texas, Breanna LaChapelle (Chris), Roseville, Minnesota, and Jacqualyn LaChapelle (Dylan), Lacey Rimkus (Dominic), Austin Rimkus and Amanda (Nathan) Magdziak, all of Ironwood, and Nicole Rimkus (Tyler), Green Bay, Wisconsin; five great-grandchildren, Aidan, Connor and Everly Anderson, Landon Magdziak and River Hellen; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Christine Kirby, Rose Lindsey and Margaret Salo; a grandson, Brian Hellen; and his son-in-law, John LaChapelle.

Out of respect for Frank's wishes, cremation has taken place.

Due to COVID-19, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at a later date.

The family would like to thank Westgate Nursing, Rehabilitation and Assisted Living Community and Regional Hospice Services for all their care and compassion during this difficult time.

Arrangements are entrusted to Jerald J. Rocco, Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.