Oscar Anthony Knuuttila

Oscar Anthony Knuuttila, 84, passed away peacefully on July 20, at his home in Ypsilanti, Michigan. He was born on October 29, 1940, to Onni and Hilia Hyypio Knuuttila in Houghton Canal, Michigan.

In 1945, his family moved to a farm and a new home and life in Tapiola, Michigan. Oscar attended the John A. Doelle Agricultural School in Tapiola where he was a member of the local Boy Scout troop, and the 4-H club. He showed his woodworking, and heifers that he raised and groomed, at the local fairs.

After graduation, he enlisted in the Armed Forces where he served in the Military Police Canine Unit. Upon completion of his military service, he moved to southeastern Michigan, where he began working in the automotive industry. He married Patricia Huett, and together they raised a family. He worked as a supervisor at Ford Motor Company and retired after 30 years. He and Patricia bought, renovated and sold various homes to ultimately build an innovative, underground, energy efficient home. He attended Eastern Michigan University, Washtenaw Community College and Irene's School of Massage. He received certifications in HVAC - also massage (like his mother Hilia ).

Oscar became known and was sought after for his hands-on skills in construction, rebuilding and repairing all things mechanical. To his family and friends - he could do anything . He lived a life of curiosity and passion for many things, including travel, flying, skiing, hunting, gardening, birding , baking and music.

In November of 2022, in a backyard ceremony officiated by his granddaughter Halle Knuuttila Huelke, he married his devoted Theodora Portugal .

Oscar was predeceased by his parents, his first wife, Patricia and siblings Leon Jeremiah Knuuttila and Pauline Knuuttila Peterman.

He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife Dora, sons, Timothy Knuuttila and Thomas Knuuttila, daughters Rebecca Knuuttila Huelke and Tonya Knuuttila and granddaughters , Skyeler Knuuttila, Emily Huelke, Halle Huelke, Samantha Huelke Darnell, Adrienne Huelke and Kristen Huelke. He is also survived by siblings H. Marie Knuuttila Juntunen, Sarah Knuuttila Wiideman and Marsha Knuuttila Kemppainen, an uncle, Edward Hyypio, 21 nieces and nephews and numerous great nieces and great nephews.

A memorial and celebration of life will be held at the Tapiola Senior Center of Tapiola, Michigan at 1pm on August 23.

The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service - Mt View Chapel of South Range is assisting the family with the local arrangements.