Richard D. Urpila, 66, of Iron River, Mich., passed away Saturday, April 23, 2011, at Marquette General Hospital, Marquette, Mich.
He was born on November 1, 1944, in Stambaugh, Mich., son of Martha (nee Seppi) Urpila and the late Edwin Urpila.
Richard attended school in Kenton, Mich., and graduated from Ewen High School, Class of 1962.
After graduation, Richard enlisted in the United States Navy where he served for four years during the Vietnam War as a 1st. Class Petty Officer, Optical Man.
After completing his service, Richard resided in Utica, Mich., where he worked in the construction industry for many years. He later moved to Lansing and Weidman, Mich., where he worked for Marchiano Contractors. Richard moved back to the Upper Peninsula and worked in the local area prior to retiring.
Richard loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout his life. He grew up in the Ottawa National Forest and later revisited the Kenton area often. Richard spent many hours enjoying the wonderful streams and rivers in the area.
He is survived by his mother, Martha, Iron River; one daughter, Leah Olter, and grandchildren, Devon and Shayla, Warren, Mich.; one sister, Sharon Polich, Iron River; nieces and nephews, Lisa Polich Tomasik, Jon Polich, Steven Polich, Tate Polich, Wanda Moilainen, Wendy Beshel, Jeff Urpila, Lori Urpila; one uncle, Robert Urpila; cousins, Alice Mackey, Donald Owsley, James Urpila; many special great-nieces and nephews; and good friends Karl Kvapil and Gary Leonardi.
A memorial service will be held for Richard by his family and friends in Kenton.
You may light a candle in remembrance of Richard or leave a condolence to his family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com
The Jacobs-Plowe Funeral Home, Crystal Falls, is serving the family.