David "Sonny" Kaiponen of Ontonagon, MI passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on January 27, 2026

Born Alden Ray David Kaiponen, he donned several names: David, Sonny, Sonny-Boy, and most proudly Husband, Dad and Grandpa.

Sonny was born on July 5th 1933 and raised in Atlantic Mine, MI to parents Eino and Anna Kaiponen.

He served his country as a member of the United States Army and soon after his service time ended he returned to Atlantic Mine to work as a copper miner.

Sonny moved to Ontonagon to continue working as a copper miner and union negotiator at the Copper Range Company White Pine mine where he worked for 40 years.

It was in Ontonagon that he met the love of his life, Edna Noble, and married in 1953.

Sonny is survived by his sisters: Carol (Lee), and Mae. His children: Kathy (Jim) Anderson, David (Leana) Kaiponen, Mary (Joe) Dautrich, Carl (Tegan) Kaiponen. His grandchildren: Racheal Butterbach, Ryan Kaiponen, Daniel Kaiponen, Emily Legate, Anna Kaiponen, Sarah Anderson, Aaron Anderson, Katelyn Dautrich, Jacob Dautrich, Shannon Sheldon, and Great Grandchildren: Taylor Kaiponen, Lexie and Alyssa, River Dautrich, Jay, Tanner, Adriana and Abigail Green as well as great great grand children Teagan and Wesley.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Edna, granddaughter Amy, and grandson Jason.

Per Sonny's wishes, no funeral services will be held. Please take a moment to celebrate Sonny's life by sharing his joy for life, family, and friends.

The family of David "Sonny" Kaiponen would like to extend our sincere thanks to the staff at Intersect Healthcare of Hancock for their care.

If everyone was more like Sonny, the world would be more bright!