Bruce Keenan Ketola

Bruce Keenan Ketola, born June 19, 1938 (86) passed peacefully at his home in Flagstaff, Arizona on January 31, 2025. Bruce was the first of four boys born to Margaret and Charles Ketola of Virginia, MN. He was raised in International Falls and graduated high school in 1956. Bruce, following his father's footsteps, went to college at the University of Minnesota. He was on the Gopher Men's Swim team for 3 years and was ranked in the top 10 nationally while he attended college. After graduating in 1961, Bruce returned to International Falls to manage the Ketola family department store until the early 1980's. He then managed the Ketola department store in Virgina, MN until its closing. Bruce spent a few years in International Falls before re-locating to Arizona. He lived in the Phoenix area for many years. Bruce met his wife Margaret on a blind date engineered by long time friend John Vadnais whom was a friend to both. Bruce and Margaret were married in 2001. Bruce moved to Flagstaff with Margaret where they enjoyed their new house together. Bruce was always an active person, often seen walking around his neighborhood, shoveling snow in winter time and staying consistent with his daily exercises. He stopped swimming just a few years ago as the rec center was no longer honoring his senior sneakers plan. He enjoyed reading and was a die-hard Vikings fan and would keep track of the Gopher football team each season.
Preceded in death was youngest brother Thomas (Tommy 1996), Mother Margaret (1997), Father Charles (2005) and beloved son Korey (Sept 2024). Bruce is survived by loving wife Margaret of Flagstaff, AZ, Brother Peter (Patty) of Brighton, MI, Brother Charles (Chuck)(Jeanne) of Plymouth, MN, daughter Toni Norris (David) of St Marys, GA, step daughter Adel Gouhin of Flagstaff, AZ, grandchildren Kristopher Ketola (Heidi) and great grandson Kaleb of St Marys, GA, Kelli Ketola and great grandson Davin of Jacksonville, FL and Meghan Gouhin of Flagstaff,AZ.
A memorial service for Bruce will be held at Faith United Church in International Falls on Saturday May 24, 2025 at 11am with a celebration of life for Bruce and son Korey following. Please join us following the service for fellowship at Faith United Church.