Arvo Laurie Lakanen

Arvo Laurie Lakanen, 73, peacefully passed away on February 29, 2024, at his Grawn home, and has recently resided in East Bay township and Grayling, MI.

Born on November 28, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, Arvo was the son of Arvo Andreas Lakanen and Mary (Lehmus) Lakanen. He cherished spending his childhood summers at the Finnish Camp near Proud Lake. Arvo graduated from Murray-Wright High School in 1968.

Arvo's greatest joy came from his marriage to Sandra, whom he met while pumping her gas. Their love blossomed over the years, and they were married on June 17, 1978. Arvo adored Sandra and always treated her with the utmost care and respect. Together, they enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, and participating in bowling leagues.

As their family grew, Arvo and Sandra welcomed four wonderful children: Wayne, Diane, Timothy, and Matthew. Arvo was a devoted father and grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his loved ones. Professionally, Arvo worked and retired as a Service Technician, for GTECH in Northern Michigan.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Arvo and Mary; in-laws Gerald and Dolores Burns; Sister Lila Glass; and Brother Clifford Stephensen.

Arvo is survived by his loving wife, Sandra (Burns), and their children, Wayne (Ryan) Lakanen; Diane (Tony) Kenner; Timothy (Alicia) Lakanen, and Matthew Lakanen. He will be dearly missed by his grandchildren, Jasmine, Braden, Aleksanteri, Nicole, Natalee, and Felix, with a great grandchild expected in May.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Arvo's life will be held on Friday, March 8, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Traverse City. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the Service at 11 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service.

The family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church. Memories of Arvo can be shared on www.ReynoldsJonkhoff.com