Robert E. Besonen, 89, of Ewen, MI, passed away on Thursday, November 1, 2018, with his loving wife at his side. Robert was born on December 28, 1928, in Duncan Township to Alex and Tynne (Laturi) Besonen. He married the former Rachel Juntila in National Mine on October 16, 1952, and celebrated 66 years of marriage this fall. Robert worked for the White Pine Copper Mine for 34 years, retiring in 1991. He was a veteran of the United States Army and served in the Korean Conflict from 1950 to 1952. He was honorably discharged in 1952. Robert loved to travel, including trips to Hawaii, Finland (twice), and spending winders in Texas with his family.

Robert is survived by his wife Rachel; two sons, Rodney (Marnie), Marquette, MI, and Robert (Wendy), Green Bay, WI; one daughter, Rosena Gerometta, Tyler, TX. He also leaves behind three grandchildren: John (Lindsey) Besonen, Marquette, Tony (Erin) Gerometta and Nicholas (Valerie) Gerometta, both of Tyler, TX. He is further survived by his great-grandchildren Gavin and Eli Gerometta, a brother-in-law Ray Kauppila, and numerous nephews, nieces, and friends. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Edwin Besonen, sisters Irene Kauppila and Nancy Razynski.

Robert's family would like to extend sincere thanks to SONCO Ambulance, neighbors, and friends – especially Jim Ojala and Eugene & Alice Johnson.

Visitation will take place at First Lutheran Church, Ewen, from 10:00 to 11:00 am on Wednesday, November 7, 2018. The funeral service will be at 11:00am at the church, followed by a brief graveside ceremony. Lunch will be served at the church after the graveside service.  Pastor Kay Richter presiding.

In Lieu of flowers, Donations to Ontonagon County Cancer Association would be appreciated.

Arrangements are being made by Cane Funeral Home.

Ontonagon County Cancer Association
P O Box 282, Ontonagon MI 49953
Web: http://ontctycancer.org