Eli E. Heikkila

Eli E. Heikkila, 79, of Iron River, MI , passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain, MI.

He was born on August 21, 1946, in Stambaugh, MI, the son of the late Eli and Thelma (Tucker) Heikkila Sr. Eli attended the Iron River Schools, graduating with the Class of 1965. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Eli married Patricia Rief on February 7, 1968, in Harrington, KS. The couple made their home in Iron River and celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary this year.

He owned and operated Lake States Engineering for 37 years. Eli was a member VFW Ottawa Post #3134, where he was a past Post Commander and District 15 Commander and a lifetime member of The American Legion. He enjoyed farming and was involved with the Iron County Fair Board.

Eli is survived by his wife, Patricia; son, Michael Heikkila of Iron Mountain, MI; daughters, Michele (Rick) Ferrara and Brandi (Levi) Lincoln, both of Iron River, MI; grandchildren, Sierra, Kelley, and Michael, Derrick, Ashly, and Chase; great-grandchildren, Eli, Kaysin, Teagan, Daniel, Riley, Destiny, Blake, Landon, and Emree; great-great-grandson, Colby; extended family and friends.

He was also preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Heikkila and sister, Ruby Mitchell.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Bates Township Cemetery where the West Side Veterans will accord Military Rites.