William Eino Aalto, 74, of Marquette, passed away Friday afternoon, November 12, 2021 at his residence.
Bill was born on March 25, 1947 in Ishpeming, a son of the late Eino and Martha (Saarinen) Aalto and had been a lifelong Upper Peninsula resident. He was a 1965 graduate of L'Anse High School. Immediately after high school, Bill joined the U.S. Air Force spending four years with them including service in Korea during the Vietnam War. When the time of his military service was concluded, Bill returned home and received a Bachelor's Degree from NMU in history and teaching.
Bill was employed with the Marquette Branch Prison beginning in 1973, working his way up the ranks and retiring as Resident Unit Manager in 2000 after 27 years of service with them.
In his free time, Bill enjoyed making maple syrup, fishing, bird and rabbit hunting at his buddy Al's camp, cutting wood for firewood and camping. More than anything else, Bill adored his children and enjoyed being involved in his their activities. Jason's hockey and football, Ann's skating and coaching Adam's travel soccer team for many years, even traveling to Sweden to Europe's largest soccer tournament.
Survivors include three children, Jason (Liz) Aalto of Peoria, AZ, Ann Aalto of Marquette and Adam Aalto of Marquette; six grandchildren, Emese, John, Savannah, Sean, Molly and Addilyn Aalto; siblings, Jerry (Peggy) Aalto of Gwinn, Jane (Robert) St. Amour of Ishpeming, Betty Rantanen of Ishpeming, and Marvin Aalto of Ishpeming; also several nieces and nephews and former wife Cathy Aalto of Marquette. Preceding him in death besides his parents was a sister, Sharon Jarvi and his former wife, Kathryn Aalto.
A memorial service will be held in the spring of 2022 in Marquette and will be announced later.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Henry Hendrickson VFW Post #8945, 13505 VFW Road, Covington, MI 49919 in Mr. Aalto's memory.
Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the Aalto family where memories of Bill may be shared at canalefuneral.com.
Tributes
Dennis West wrote on Nov 23, 2021:
"I am so sorry to hear about Bill's passing. We enjoyed many years together coaching travel soccer. You could count on Bill to always be at practice, contributing his insights and sharing laughs. I really enjoyed those years and Bill's company, friendship and positive effect on the boys. Blessings to all who loved him, Dennis West"
Bob King wrote on Nov 18, 2021:
"My condolences to the Aalto Family. Bill and I started at the Dept. of Corrections together in 1973. This became a life long friendship. We had numerous trips in the woods with our hunting dogs, a few trips to Vegas, and many visits to each other''s homes. There are so many stories, memories and laughs. We had us some great times. Bill was a fun guy to hang around with as he was always laughing and very easy going. I am glad Bill was a part of my life for all these years. Rest in peace my friend.
Bob King"