Alan J. Laakso

DIORITE, MI – Alan J. Laakso, age 67, lifelong Diorite resident, passed away peacefully, in the loving care of his family and UP Home Health and Hospice on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at his childhood home that his father built.

Alan was born on June 27, 1958, in Ishpeming, to the late Arne “Muna” and Shirley (LaParche) Laakso. He was proud to have grown up in Diorite. Alan attended Ely Township Elementary School, Champion Middle/High school and graduated in 1976 as a member of the second graduating class of Westwood High School.

During his high school years, Alan met the love of his life, Randi Quayle. The couple were united in marriage on August 2, 1975, at Trinity Lutheran Church. They made their first home together in Diorite, where they remained throughout their lives, building a life rooted in family and the outdoors.

Alan spent more than 17 years working at the Northern Automatic Electric Foundry in North Lake until it closed and then finished his career at Northern Tire in Ishpeming. His greatest passion in life was trapping, a pursuit he began in childhood and continued throughout his life. Largely self-taught, he also appreciated the guidance and advice of his Uncle George Syrjala. He had a deep love for the outdoors and especially cherished time spent with his family at camp and taking rides through the woods. At heart, however, Alan also valued the comfort of home. He will be remembered for his steadfast loyalty and dedication to those he loved.

Alan became a life member of the UP Trappers Association one week before his passing. Alan was also a member of the Sons of The American Legion Post 114.

Alan is survived by his children, Jeremy (Karen) Laakso and Jennifer Laakso; grandchildren, Ryan (Olivia) Laakso, Jacob (Kelly) Laakso, Hunter (Makenzie) Laakso, Bethany (Jackson) Vilona, Kaiden (Gracie) Miller, Gavinn Miller, Kinzleigh Pietila; and a great-grandson, Clark; his brother, Bruce “Butch” (Marijane) Laakso; and sisters, Barbara (Steven) Liubakka, Sherry (Gordon) Murray, and Joyce Cote; his special friend Betty Ann; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Alan was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Randi Laakso; his son, Jason Laakso; his parents, Arne and Shirley Laakso; his twin sister Ann Marie (1968), and sister, Arlene (1957); along with his “Brother” Rodney Wing.

Honoring Alan’s wishes, cremation will take place and a celebration of life for Alan and Randi will be held at the Ely Township Hall in the near future.

A full obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where friends and family are invited to leave notes of remembrance.