John Kaunisto

John Alexander “Johnny 5” Kaunisto, age 67, of Sault Ste. Marie, MI, passed away on April 2, 2022, at War Memorial Hospital. 

John was born on December 31, 1954, in Sault Ste. Marie, MI to the late E. Ray and Margaret “Peggy” (Alexander) Kaunisto. 

John graduated from Sault High School with the class of 1973.  On November 8, 1986, John married Sue Anne Hill in Sault Ste. Marie, MI. He was a member of the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Moose Lodge.  John volunteered at the I-500 and enjoyed watching NASCAR, hunting and fishing shows, Food Network, and Hallmark movies. He loved spending time with family and friends, and socializing whenever he could.  He also enjoyed spending time at deer camp with his brothers and nephews, hunting, and fishing. 

John is survived by his wife: Sue Kaunisto; two daughters: Heather Kaunisto of Sault Ste. Marie, MI, Lindsy Kaunisto (Trenton Gamelin) of Grand Rapids, MI; a stepson: Marty (Renee) Goetz of Interlochen, MI; and four grandchildren: Elias Anthony Gamelin, Riley Goetz, Ryan Goetz, and Marlee Goetz.  John is also survived by his siblings: Ron (Genny) Kaunisto of Dafter, MI, Patti Kaunisto (Randy Robertson) of Sault Ste. Marie, MI, Kim (Tom) Harris of Sault Ste. Marie, MI, Mike (Bonnie) Kaunisto of Sault Ste. Marie, MI, Pat (Dianna) Wilson of Dafter, MI, Shawn (Laurie) Wilson of Sault Ste. Marie, MI, Lauralee (Joe) Shawhan of Houghton, MI, and Ailene (Mike) Bitner of Sault Ste. Marie, MI. John is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents and step-father (S.P. Wilson).

Per John’s wishes, a public service will not be held. Private family gathering will be held on a later date.