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Gordon Kilpela

Gordon Kilpela

IRON MOUNTAIN — Gordon James Kilpela, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, at the age of 83, at Marshfield Medical Center-Dickinson in Iron Mountain.

Gordon was born on March 22, 1942, in Ishpeming, to Urho Kilpela and Alice Cardinal. He spent his formative years growing up in Mohawk, Mich. A dedicated and hardworking man, Gordon built a long and fulfilling career with Deluxe Cleaning Service in Iron Mountain, where he worked faithfully for 35 years until his retirement.

On June 19, 1998, Gordon married the love of his life, Kathy, beginning a beautiful partnership built on devotion and mutual support. In his spare time, Gordon channeled his energies into his passion for woodworking and building, a talent that created lasting pieces for his family and friends.

He leaves behind a deep legacy of love, humor, and steadfast dedication to his family. Gordon is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Kilpela, who was his devoted partner for 27 years. He will be deeply missed by his children: his sons, Ryan Kilpela of Iron Mountain and James Kilpela, and his daughter, Mary Jo Kilpela. He was a cherished grandfather to Mindy. Gordon is also survived by his brother, Norman Kilpela, and his wife, Mary Ann Kilpela, who hold fond memories of their time together.

Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, Urho and Alice Kilpela. He now joins several beloved siblings who went before him: three brothers, John, David, and Ardell Kilpela, and two sisters, Betty and Mary Ann.

Graveside services will be announced at a later date. Burial will be held at Cemetery Park in Iron Mountain.

Friends and family are invited to express condolences and share memories online at www.jacobsfuneralhomes.com.

The family has chosen Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron Mountain to honor Gordon’s legacy of life.