Houghton, September 9, 2025
News Summary
Glenn Pyhtila, a cherished member of the Houghton community and a former assistant business administrator, passed away peacefully at the age of 90. Born in Hancock, Glenn served in the U.S. Army, where he excelled in hockey. He was actively involved in his church and local sports, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service. His family and community remember him fondly for his contributions, especially to youth hockey in the area.
Hancock – Glenn Pyhtila, a long-time resident of Houghton and a beloved member of the community, passed away at the age of 90 on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Eastwood Nursing Center in Negaunee. Glenn had been receiving care at Eastwood for two months prior to his passing.
Born on August 11, 1935, in Hancock, Michigan, Glenn was the son of the late Henry and Hulda Jemina (Jarvela) Pyhtila. He spent his formative years in a variety of locations, including Detroit, Winona, and Hancock. After graduating from Hancock High School in 1953, he briefly moved to the Detroit area before serving in the United States Army, where he made a name for himself as a player on the Ft. Richardson Pioneers Hockey team, which won the US Army Championship.
Following his military service, Glenn attended Suomi College and subsequently earned a degree in Business Administration from Michigan Technological University. On January 12, 1957, he married Shirley Kemila. Their early years together were spent in Ohio and Illinois, where Glenn worked for the United States Department of Agriculture. In 1965, the couple relocated to Houghton, where Glenn became the first male hired as the assistant business administrator at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hancock. He later served as the Houghton County Controller until his retirement in 1995.
Glenn was an active member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Hancock and was widely recognized for his contributions to the local hockey community. He took great pride in coaching the Laurn Grove Hockey team and worked with players of all ages through the Copper County Junior Hockey Association. Additionally, Glenn was a respected member of the Ottawa Sportsmen’s Club and enjoyed spending time at his family camp in Alston.
A lifelong sports fan, Glenn was particularly passionate about hockey and football, supporting the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Detroit Lions. He is remembered by his family and friends for his commitment to sports and his community.
Preceding Glenn in death were his son Michael, along with siblings Edna Saari, Edel Kuoppala, and Eugene Pyhtila. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Pyhtila, his sons Eric (Jean) Pyhtila of Hancock Township, Alan Pyhtila of Northville, MI, and Chris (Dr. Jessica) Pyhtila of Sterling, VA. Glenn is also survived by his daughter-in-law Cindy Pyhtila of Hancock, along with grandchildren Andrew, Elizabeth, Joseph, Marie, Tina, and Tristan, and great-grandchildren Niklas, Luukas, Adele, Sophie, and Noah.
A memorial service for Glenn Pyhtila will be held at a later date at the Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Hancock Chapel. Burial will take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Hancock. Those wishing to send condolences or learn more can visit www.Memorialchapel.net.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Glenn Pyhtila known for?
Glenn Pyhtila was known for his work as a business administrator and his contributions to the local hockey community through coaching and mentoring players.
Where did Glenn Pyhtila spend his final days?
He spent his final days at Eastwood Nursing Center in Negaunee, Michigan.
What are some of Glenn Pyhtila’s achievements?
He served in the United States Army, where he played for the Ft. Richardson Pioneers Hockey team, and was the first male hired at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hancock.
Who are Glenn Pyhtila’s survivors?
Survivors include his wife Shirley, several children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
When will the memorial service for Glenn Pyhtila take place?
The memorial service will be held at a later date, with specific details to be announced.
Key Features of Glenn Pyhtila’s Life
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 11, 1935 |
| Date of Passing | September 4, 2025 |
| Key Occupations | Assistant Business Administrator at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Houghton County Controller |
| Military Service | United States Army, Ft. Richardson Pioneers Hockey Team |
| Family Members Surviving | Wife Shirley, sons Eric, Alan, Chris, daughter-in-law Cindy, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren |
| Church Affiliation | Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Hancock |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Upper Michigan’s Source: Glenn Pyhtila Obituary
- Wikipedia: Houghton, Michigan
- Keweenaw Report: Glenn Pyhtila
- Google Search: Glenn Pyhtila
- Mining Gazette: Ronald P. Saari Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hockey
- Legacy: James Britz Obituary
- Google News: Hancock, Michigan
- Legacy: Anita Juntunen Obituary
- Google Scholar: Community Contributions
- Legacy: Ina Nordstrom Obituary
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