Michael Toivo Uotila, 69, went to the special place prepared for him in Heaven on December 12, 2014. Born in Hancock, Michigan to Donald and Mary (Latvis) Uotila on November 21 1945, it seems fitting that one of his favorite birthday activities was staying out at deer camp. He didn't do much shooting as he said they were just too pretty. He didn't mind eating the venison though, when sons Michael or Jonathan, and granddaughter Makennah managed to tag one.

He grew up primarily in the Mass City area and left only for a little while to serve his country honorably in the Vietnam War in the Navy on the U.S.S. Enterprise and the U.S.S. Hancock out of Alemeda, California from 1964-1968. He was proud of his time in uniform and often told his family and friends he saved it so he could wear it again someday. It was hilarious as his service I.D. stated he was 155 pounds.

After Mike finished up his time in the Navy, he returned to the U.P., met Sandra Luttinen, and convinced her to be his bride (especially on a notable date to see the bears) on January 29th 1972. Michael Jr. was born later that year. Jon showed up three years later and stressed them out so much they decided two kids were good enough. This is where Mike's life really began. He taught his boys to work and play hard. He taught them to make the best out of what they had at the time, traits they surely treasure today. He enjoyed watching them play football and traveled all over Michigan to cheer on the Ontonagon Gladiators, going as far as painting the family car for a trip to the state finals.

Mike bartended, drove school bus, cooked, served in the American Legion and V.F.W., and even did some occasional side jobs, but he truly loved his career as a custodian and maintenance man for Ontonagon High School. The students and community members loved his laugh and knew him for being "brutally honest" at times. He never glossed over things; but then yet, he was kind, compassionate and always willing to help friends in need, even to a fault.

Mike loved to "road cruise" for firewood blocks and ruffed grouse, spending time with his grandchildren at Twin Lakes, hunting for rocks and artifacts, and cheering on the Detroit Lions. He would stop in to see his beloved nieces Kay (Bill) Tislar and Mary (John) Wagner often (many times with a broken piece of machinery for John). He was often spotted with his friends Butch and Steve, and those sightings occurred anywhere from Covington to the back roads of Mass City. His voice carried through entire schools when he was into a good basketball game, especially Makennah's exciting 3rd Grade games, and his infectious laugh filled a room with joy. He played softball, dartball, and even some pool at times, much to Sandy's chagrin, and always enjoyed the friendly competition.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra, sons, Michael (Kirsten), Jonathan (Jaime), grandchildren, Trent, Makennah, Carson, Kylee and Addison, sisters Cassie (Ron) Miilu, and Frannie Antilla, and numerous close relatives. He was preceded in death by an infant brother, parents, stepmother, Rita and many beloved aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral services will take place at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Mass City on Friday December 19th at 11 a.m. with a time for greeting and remembrance starting at 10 a.m.