Anthony J. “Joey” Nikunen, age 39, former Gladstone area resident died Thursday, April 14th, 205, at home in Flint, Michigan following a brief illness.

Joe was born May 18th, 1965 in Munising, the son of Vernon, Sr. and Wilma Jean (Schwartz) Nikunen and was raised in Gladstone. He spent most of his adult life in Lower Michigan, mostly in the Flint area. Joey was employed as a carpenter in the construction field most of his working life and was a member of the Detroit Carpenters Union.

Anthony J.” Joey’s” survivors include:

His mother, Wilma Jean Debassige of Gwinn, MI

1 Son-A.J Nikunen of Monroe, MI

2 Daughters-Nicole Nikunen of Monroe, MI; Chelsea Nikunen of Monroe, MI

2 Brothers- Vernon Nikunen of Kincheloe, MI; Gene (Wanda) Debassige of Rock

3 Sisters-Barbara Winnie of Escanaba; Torey Debassige of Gwinn, MI; Kris Schwartz Derouin of Kincheloe, MI

and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He also leaves to survive a beloved friend, Roxanne Lockwood, of Flint. 

The family of Anthony J. “Joey” Nikunen will receive friends on Tuesday at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Services celebrating Joey’s life will follow on Tuesday at the Skradski Funeral Home at 5:00 p.m. with Rev. John Small of the Rock Bible Chapel officiating. Burial will be in the Rapid River Cemetery. The Skradski-Boyce Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Nikunen family.