Obituary of Steven Harry Rantala

Steven Harry Rantala, age 80, passed away on Monday, November 4, 2019 in Duluth, MN. Steve took a fall on October 30 which resulted in a brain injury. He was a Northland resident for most of his life. Steve was born on November 15, 1938 in Superior, WI to Harry Wilbur and Esther Jean (Hintikka) Rantala. He graduated from Central High School in 1956. Steve went on to UW Superior graduating with both his Bachelor and Masters degrees in Music Education. For over 30 years Steve shared his passion for music as an elementary and secondary music teacher, starting his career in Port Wing, WI and ending in Cloquet, MN. His love for music was not limited to teaching alone, as he was an active member of many musical groups and local bands. The Six Minus Three with Don Anderson and the late Dick Ford was his longest running gig. They played the London House, the West Duluth American Legion and many reunions and wedding receptions. He also enjoyed his time with groups such as the Harbormasters, Kanteleen Soittajat and the Jarvenpaa Singers. Whether large or small, these groups allowed him to share his passion while building lifelong friendships along the way. Music touched his soul. Steve was also a member of the Wisconsin National Guard. Summers were spent exploring the waters of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands on his boat, Rough Magic. He was excited to share adventures with family and friends or ready to take a solo sail to Cornucopia or Bayfield. He was always at home on the lake no matter the weather or destination. He was a talker, willing to share stories and listen to others. His love of life will be remembered by his friends and family. Steve is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary; children David Rantala, James (Nancy) Rantala, Robin Rantala, Phillip Rantala and Sara (Darran) White; grandchildren Tori, Chelsea, Edmund, Madeline and Eleanor. He is also survived by his sister Mary Kay (Jim) Stillson and nephews and a niece. He is preceded in death by his parents and his first wife Judy O’Konek. His family would like to thank all of the employees at Essentia Duluth who helped Steve with his numerous medical issues. A service to celebrate his life will be on Friday, November 22, 2019 at Glen Avon Presbyterian Church, 2105 Woodland Avenue, Duluth. Visitation is at noon, service at 1pm and reception at 2pm. If possible please bring a written or typed story about Steve or a photo to share, as his family would like to fill a journal with memories of him.