Edward “Ed” Earnest Albert Kukkonen, age 81, of Arcata, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, surrounded by family.

Ed was born on July 3, 1944, in Hancock, Michigan, to Edward and Irene Kukkonen. After graduating high school, he proudly served in the United States Navy. Following his service, Ed made his way to Northern California, eventually settling in Eureka, where he built a life grounded in hard work and family.

Ed took great pride in his work as a forklift operator, beginning at Cal Pacific and later at Louisiana Pacific and Britt Lumber. It was while working at Cal Pacific that he met the love of his life, Charlene Petersen (Wright). They were married in September of 1977 and shared many years together filled with dedication, partnership and love.

Ed found happiness in simple, meaningful things like spending time with friends and family, and working around his property in Willow Creek. Above all, he cherished time with his grandchildren. Whether it was hunting, cutting firewood, attending baseball games and gymnastics meets, or at the drag strip. Ed was happiest when surrounded by his grandkids and being part of their lives.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Charlene Kukkonen; his children Kenneth Petersen, Karen (Troy) Clower, and Kim (Ken) Keasey; his sister Peggy (John) Pulkkinen; brothers Richard Kukkonen and Robert (Barbara) Kukkonen; his sister-in-law Vida (Mike) Lorenzen; his grandchildren Kenneth Petersen Jr., Austin (Shawna Estes) Petersen, Lane Clower, Garrett Clower, Chet Keasey, and Shelby Keasey; and his great-grandchildren Aubrey Petersen and Daytona Petersen, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his infant son Edward Richard Kukkonen; his parents Edward and Irene Kukkonen; his sisters Esther (Alfred) Nanerville and Sandra Aittama; his father-in-law Charles “Les”  Wright; mother-in-law Evelyne Wright; brother-in-law Chuck Wright; and his loyal dog, Peaches.

Our family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Joe and Crystal at Eureka Rehabilitation, the compassionate staff at Sequoia Springs, Redwood Memorial Hospital and Larry Keasey for their kindness, care, and support during Dad’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 2542, McKinleyville, CA 95519.