George Oikarinen, 71, a resident of Calumet, died on June 22. He was born in Hancock on January 1, 1949. He was a graduate of Calumet High School in 1967 and earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Michigan State University in 1972.
George worked in many places including Wisconsin, Minnesota, Nevada, Wyoming and Alaska, where he shipped a huge king salmon as an unexpected gift. He retired and returned to the Copper Country.
George was a voracious reader, avid film buff and dedicated Packer fan. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening and was interested in experimental aviation. George was a football and track star at Calumet High. He excelled as a sprinter for Walt Kitti. One of the greatest running backs in Calumet history, he was inducted into Calumet High's Hall of Fame. In 1966 he was an All U.P. first team honoree. His college career was shortened by injury at Northern Michigan University.
Preceding him were parents Leonard and Lillian (Wirtanen).
Surviving are: Brothers: Peter (Barbara Simila) of Copper City
Richard (Lori Barron) of Sedar Bay
James of Calumet
Special friend, Margaret Torreano of Wausau, Wi.
Nieces: Kacey (Chris) Davenport, Lisa (Dan) Kaufman, Jenny (Craig) Bollig
Kara Oikarinen
Nephews: Erik, Domi, Justin
Cousin: Harold Beaudoin
Private remembrances will be held. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com. The Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home in Calumet is assisting the family with the arrangements.