Leo Waisanen, 89, of Ontonagon passed away Monday, November 19, 2012 at the Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital.

Leo was born July 21, 1923 in Ontonagon to parents Alex and Jenny (Rautula) Waisanen. He graduated from Ontonagon Area High School in 1943, and was drafted into the United States Army in June, 1943. Leo joined the 142nd Infantry Regiment, 36th Division where saw action in Italy and Southern France. He was wounded in France when shrapnel injured his hand. Leo was honorably discharged from the Army on October 30, 1945.

Following his service during WWII, Leo was employed at National Container from 1945-1952 and then worked at White Pine Copper from 1955-1983. On January 26, 1957, he was united in marriage to Lila Miller, who preceded him in death on May 13, 2001.

Leo is survived by his stepchildren Clifford Hill of Ontonagon, Russell Miller of Kenton and Elizabeth Krolik of Portage. He is also survived by his niece, Laurie Juopperi of Bruce Crossing; nephew Jerry (Vicki) Beck of Ontonagon; and many grandnieces and grandnephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Lila, Leo was preceded in death by his stepchildren Elaine Greathouse, Lois Gunderman and Larry Miller.

Funeral Services for Leo will be held Saturday, November 24, 2012 at Cane Funeral Home in Ontonagon, beginning at 11 a.m., with visitation at 10 a.m. Burial will take place in the Riverside Cemetery in Ontonagon.

Following the funeral service, friends are invited to gather at Cane Court for a Memorial Luncheon in Leo's honor.