David Hytinen

David Keith Hytinen, 74, of Gwinn, passed away peacefully at his home on November 30, 2025. Born August 17, 1951, in Ishpeming, Michigan, he was the son of Eino Hytinen and Beatrice (Connors) Bragg. David (Dave) was a devoted husband to Kathy (d. 2022), the best father and grandfather imaginable, a lifelong teacher, a funny, kind, incredibly wise and honorable man to those who knew him, and an avid outdoorsman who cherished deer hunting and fishing in the Upper Peninsula woods and waters. A proud member of Gwinn High School's Class of 1969, Dave earned his bachelor's degree in education and later a Master of Arts in Education from Northern Michigan University. For thirty years he taught fifth grade in the Negaunee Public Schools-first at Palmer Pineview Elementary until its closing, and then at Lakeview Elementary, where he also served as Interim Administrator. Countless former students still call "Mr. Hytinen" their all-time favorite teacher. He retired in 2005 and was honored the following year with the Excellence in Education Influential Educator award, among many well-earned tributes throughout his distinguished career. Dave spent much of his early childhood moving throughout the southeastern United States before he returned to Gwinn, where he met the love of his life, Kathy. Together they built a warm, steadfast home filled with love, laughter, and tradition. Summers meant vacations and camping, fall brought deer camp with family and lifelong friends, and every day included the quiet lessons only a truly good man can teach: work hard, tell the truth, show up for people, and honor your commitments. His children and grandchildren grew up knowing exactly what it meant to be cherished and guided by the very best kind of dad and grandpa. Dave is survived by his son, Dave W. Hytinen; daughter, Nicole (Billy) Gauthier; grandson, Dave R. Hytinen; granddaughter, Brynlee Gauthier; sister, Jacqueline (Gary) Lutz; sisters-in-law Lisa (Darren) Montfort and Maxine Jacobson; and many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Kathy (2022); his parents; brother, Darryl; sister, Sheila (James) Marjomaki; and grandson, Jack Gauthier, who tragically passed away in July. A celebration of Dave's life will be held at the American Legion Post 349 in Little Lake in the near future with the date and time to be announced. Interment will be in the Gwinn Cemetery. Correspondence to his children can be sent to P.O. Box 598, Gwinn, MI 49841. Family, friends, former students, and colleagues are encouraged to share memories of Dave via letters or during his celebration of life. His memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.