Roger Kinnunen

ROGER KINNUNEN November 20, 1945 - November 24, 2014 Roger Kinnunen, age 69 of Hawley, MN, formerly of Menahga, MN, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 24, 2014 at his home near Hawley, MN. Roger was born on November 20, 1945 to Edwin and Julia (Nevala) Kinnunen on the home farm near Menahga. He attended public school in Menahga, graduating with the High School class of 1963. Roger entered the United States Army where he proudly served his country during the Viet Nam War. During much of his tour of duty, Roger was stationed at the Erlangen Military Base in Erlangen, Germany. Upon receiving his honorable discharge, he returned home to Menahga where he met his soul mate and future wife, Edith "Edie" Niemela. They were united in marriage December 14, 1968 in Menahga. Their union was blessed with three children: Kim, Troy and Scott. Roger went on to attend the Wadena Technical College where he studied Electrical Contracting. After working as an electrician for several years, Roger started his own contracting company, Roger's Electric in Hawley, MN in 1977. He operated his business in a career that spanned over 35 years. Over the years, Roger's life long passion for fast Fords gained him success in the drag racing world where he earned respect, notoriety and many trophies for racing his 1971 Yellow Mustang, "Mustang Magic". Later in life, Roger enjoyed attending car shows and displaying his 1972 Grand Torino which he affectionately called "Goldie". Each winter he looked forward to spending time ice fishing with family and friends. His life was deeply saddened by the death of his precious wife, Edie in February of 2009. Above all, Roger took great delight in his children and grandchildren who he dearly loved. He will be lovingly remembered by his daughter, Kim (Bob) Schreiner of Harwood, ND; his two sons: Troy Kinnunen of Moorhead and Scott ( fiancé Bonita) Kinnunen of Fargo; his two grandchildren: Derek and Nicole; his sister, Barb (Arnie) Mattson of Menahga and Rick Kinnunen of Maui, Hawaii; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Roger was preceded in death by his wife, parents and one brother, Ray who died in 2008. Funeral services will be held 2 PM Friday, December 5, 2014 at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Menahga with the Reverend John Ramsbacher officiating. The organist will be Ruth Ann Kinnunen. Grandson, Derek Schreiner will play a trombone solo of "Amazing Grace". The casket bearers will be Nathan Niemela, Bradley Niemela, Bob Schreiner, Derek Schreiner, Mike Schreiner and T.J. Tibbetts. Interment will be made in the Jim Cook Cemetery east of Menahga. The Guy L. McDermit VFW Post of Menahga will provide the military honors. To view the video tribute or to leave on line condolences please visit www.cardinipearson.com.