Wayne Richard Altonen

Wayne “Tez” Richard Altonen, age 82, of Ironton, Minnesota, passed away peacefully after a memorable day with his family and friends on November 19, 2021.

Born in Minneapolis on July 31, 1939 to Hazel VanHala Josephson and Larry Altonen.

Wayne was tenacious of the passions in his life; his family, a lifetime member of Minneapolis Pipefitters Local 539, involvement in the Democratic party, a staunch union supporter, his Finnish heritage, and his beloved family cabin.

Preceded in death by grandmother and grandfather Ida and Charles “Swampy” Swanpeg; mother, Hazel Josephson; father, Larry Altonen, and brother Gerald Altonen.

Survived by his loving wife, and high school sweetheart, of 62 years, Geraldine Pederson Altonen; his children Richard Altonen, David (Melanie) Altonen, Denise (Deb Gilmore) Altonen, Kathi (Victor) Guzman, Virginia (Edmund) Anderson; his grandchildren Cody Altonen, Jordan (Dylan) Altonen and future great-grandson, Nick Guzman, Riley Altonen, Claire (Wyatt) Lawrence, Anthony Guzman, Allie Altonen, Julia Anderson, Emilija Anderson, Ella Anderson, and Audrey Anderson. Sister-in-law Virginia “Ginny” Larson; and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

All whose lives have been touched by his presence are devastated by his passing. Wayne will be forever loved and greatly missed. A celebration of life honoring Wayne will be held on Saturday, December 11th from 1-4pm at Koop Funeral Home in Crosby, Minnesota.