Longtime Wakefield Resident Roger John Koivu Passes Away at 78

Koivu, a Vietnam War veteran and heavy equipment operator, is remembered for his love of family and the outdoors.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Roger John Koivu, a 78-year-old resident of Wakefield, Michigan, passed away on February 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a lengthy illness. Koivu was a Vietnam War veteran who worked as a heavy equipment operator before retiring. He was known for his passion for the outdoors and spending time with his family.

Why it matters

Koivu's passing marks the end of an era for the Wakefield community, where he had lived his entire life. As a veteran, longtime employee, and devoted family man, Koivu embodied the values and spirit of the small Michigan town.

The details

Koivu was born on February 17, 1948, in Wakefield and attended the local high school, graduating in 1966. He then proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for four years as a helicopter mechanic during the Vietnam War. After his military service, Koivu worked and retired as a heavy equipment operator from White Pine Copper Mine and Bessemer Plywood Company. On April 17, 1971, he married Margaret "Peg" Slanina in Tacoma, Washington. Koivu loved the outdoors and made many happy memories with his family camping at local lakes.

  • Koivu was born on February 17, 1948.
  • Koivu graduated from Wakefield High School in 1966.
  • Koivu served in the U.S. Air Force for four years during the Vietnam War.
  • Koivu married Margaret "Peg" Slanina on April 17, 1971.
  • Koivu passed away on February 22, 2026.

The players

Roger John Koivu

A 78-year-old resident of Wakefield, Michigan, who was a Vietnam War veteran and heavy equipment operator before retiring.

Margaret "Peg" Slanina

Koivu's wife of 55 years.

Dr. James Rocco

The doctor who provided care and attention to Koivu.

Jerald Rocco

The owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc. in Wakefield, who is assisting the family with arrangements.

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What’s next

A private ceremony will be held at a later date to celebrate Koivu's life.

The takeaway

Roger John Koivu's passing marks the end of an era for the tight-knit Wakefield community, where he was known as a devoted family man, Vietnam War veteran, and longtime employee who embodied the values and spirit of the small Michigan town.