Peter William Niemi

Peter William Niemi, age 73, of Sundell, died unexpectedly on Sunday morning, October 29, 2023 at his home following a brief illness.  He was born in Ishpeming, Michigan on September 6, 1950 to the late Eugene and Anna (Vanni) Niemi.  Pete grew up in Sundell and graduated from Eben High School in 1968.  He entered in the U.S. Navy in December of 1968.  Pete married Rita Rae Tyner on June 20, 1970 and together they raised their three children.  Pete served as an electrician on the USS Forrestal.  He was honorably discharged on November 27, 1972 and their family moved home to Sundell.  Pete worked at the Empire Mine from 1973 until 2010.  He worked on his small hobby farm and his family, including extended family was always important to him.  Pete enjoyed fishing, hunting, and playing cards, but his passion was golf.   He spent hours on the driving range he made in his back yard and on the courses with his brother, son, son-in-law and grandsons.  Many cherished memories were made doing the things he loved because he did them with his family and relatives, including camping and playing Texas Hold ‘Em.  Everyone that knew Pete said what a nice guy he was and he will be greatly missed by those who loved him.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 53 years – Rita Niemi of Sundell; their children – Teri (Kevin) Lintula of Skandia, Michelle Sommer of Sheboygan, WI, and Kim Niemi (Leah Gantkessy) of Slapneck, MI; grandchildren – Hailey and Luke Lintula, Paige and Cassie Sommer, and Travis Niemi; brother – Leo (Nona) Niemi; sister – Fern Niemi; and in-laws – Edward (Marlene) Tyner, Jr., Carol (James) Trumbell, Donna Pedone, George (Barbara) Tyner, Terry (Barbara) Tyner, Sharlet (Melvin) Silta, James Charlebois, Jack Tyner, Bonnie (Marvin) Maki, Tim (Kim) Tyner, and Kim (Judy) Tyner; and numerous nieces, nephews and The Appleton Crew.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents - Eugene and Anna Niemi, brother - Martin Niemi, and in-laws – Ron Pedone, Gloria Charlebois, Janet Tyner, and Jim (Sherry) Tyner.

Services will be held at the Sion Lutheran Church in Chatham on Monday, November 6, 2023.  Visiting time with family and friends will be from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.  Pastor Bo Baumeister will conduct Pete’s memorial service at 4:00 p.m.  A time of fellowship will follow at the church.