Dale Luokkala

Born March 16, 1957 in Marquette to Bernard and Marguerite (Genord) Luokkala, lifelong resident of Negaunee, Dale was well-known in the community. It was impossible to go anywhere without him stopping to talk to friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. He started his career as an underground miner at the Mather B and worked for over 38 years for CCI – or “Uncle Cliffs” as he called it – filling numerous roles including as a welder and blaster over those years. After his retirement, he founded and ran “papa daycare” for his first granddaughter, Charlie Uren.

Dale was a man of remarkable talent, known for his ability to repurpose, repair, and fix anything. He could see the potential in things that others may overlook, and his hands were always busy creating or mending. Whether he was under the sun enjoying the warmth or taking full advantage of the cold by snowmobiling and ice fishing, Dale found joy in the simple pleasures of life.

He had a true love for sports. He played softball each summer up until his diagnosis and was a regular presence at the Negaunee Alumni tournaments. His most cherished sports involvement, however, was watching his grandson Carter Beerling play hockey, whom he always cheered with pride. Dale loved camp life – where he could appreciate the crackling sound of a propane lantern, the warmth of a sauna, and patchy radio signals with a drink in hand – whether for an afternoon or the entirety of deer season with his brother Gregory. He was also passionate about vintage cars and looked forward to showing off his 1972 Plymouth Duster.

Dale’s sense of humor, sarcasm, and caring nature will live on through his wife, daughters, grandchildren, siblings, and all who had the privilege of knowing him

Through all the trials of life, Dale was surrounded by the love of family and friends. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to those who helped and supported us during this difficult time, especially his brothers, sisters, friends, and the wonderful team at Lake Superior Hospice, particularly his nurse Addey.

Dale survives through his loving family, who will continue to carry his memory in their hearts: his wife of 45-years, Lori Luokkala, children Heather (Kyle) Smith and Heidi (Zachary) Uren, grandchildren Carter Beerling, Charlie Uren, Teddie and Finley Smith, siblings Bernard (Brenda) Luokkala, Linda Sleeman, Dennis (Terrie) Luokkala, William (Jeannie) Luokkala, Tim (Patti) Luokkala, Sue Luokkala, Greg (Pam) Luokkala, mother-in-law Lavern Martin and many others who were touched by his kindness and spirit. He was preceded in death by his parents Bernard and Marguerite Luokkala.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Negaunee on Thursday, February 13, 2025. Visitation will be held from 10:30 am until the time of services at 1:00 pm. Lunch will follow in the Fellowship Hall.

Dale, you were loved beyond words and will be missed deeply by all. Your legacy will live on through the laughter, love, and memories you created. Dale’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.