Obituary of William Arthur Wiitala

William Arthur Wiitala, 85, a longtime resident of Superior, WI, passed away on Friday, December 11, 2020 following a lengthy illness and complications from Covid-19.

William (Bill) was born on August 3, 1935 in Brule, WI, to Eli and Tyne (Kotanen) Wiitala.

Bill was a loving, caring, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He married his best friend and true love, Eva Liisa (Yrjanainen) on March 15, 1958 in Oulu, WI. Together, they enjoyed speaking Finnish and carrying on the traditions of their Finnish heritage.

After serving in the U.S. Army (Colorado Springs, CO and Tacoma, WA), Bill returned to Superior and began his career with Northern Engineering Works. As a hardworking foreman, he excelled in his field and valued his extended work family. He retired from Northern Engineering Works after 35 years of service.

Faith was an important part of his life. He enjoyed reading the Bible and listening to church radio broadcasts. He was a member of Pilgrim Lutheran Church.

Bill loved spending time with his family, playing with his grandchildren, visiting, helping others, watching his favorite classic Western movies, and game shows. He remained active as long as he could, working on various mechanical projects during his retirement years.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Eva Liisa; his three children, Camilla Wiitala (Los Angeles, CA), Keith (Laurel) Wiitala of Minnetonka, MN, and Wade (Debbie) Wiitala of Plymouth, MN; his grandchildren, Derek, Allyson, Ashley, Madeleine, and Bryce; brother, Axel (Patsy) Wiitala; brother-in-laws, Leo (Lois) Yrjanainen and Waino (Nona) Yrjanainen; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and family friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eli and Tyne Wiitala; parent-in-laws, John and Impi Yrjanainen; brothers, Reuben Wiitala and Martin Wiitala; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Elmer and Evie Yrjanainen; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Wesley and Alli Johnson, and his faithful Yorkie (Winston).

Bill will be remembered for his kind heart and dedication to his family. He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

The family would like to thank the staff at Villa Marina Nursing Home for the care and support they provided.

In the spring, a private graveside service will be held at the Waino Ever-Rest Cemetery in Brule, WI.