Farewell Steve – and Thanks.

The Ironwood Theatre family lost a treasured friend when Steve Karasti passed away unexpectedly in late June.

Steve moved to the Ironwood area in 1987 and immediately began volunteering with his church and numerous service organizations. It was through his volunteering that he met his wife of 32 years, Joy. Throughout their marriage, they served their church and community through volunteering and mentoring others.

He was a member and past president of the Ironwood Kiwanis, Ironwood Chamber of Commerce, and the Ironwood Area Jaycees. He was an active member of Ironwood Knights of Columbus. Steve was most recently very active with the Hurley Lions Club where he was also once the president. He had a passion for theatre and music, performing in many productions at the Historic Ironwood Theatre (HIT) and Theatre North. Steve sang in the Range Chorus, and Chamber Singers, and was known for his beautiful voice. He also volunteered at the Ironwood Theatre. Staff and other HIT volunteers cherish those times when he would stop at the theatre office to pick up posters which he would distribute around Hurley. Or sometimes he just popped in to chat. We’ll miss those chats.

To honor Steve’s commitment to faith and community service, in lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations of time, talent, and/or treasure to any of the many faith, service, or theatre organizations.

“Life is a gift, love is a gift, and when both are bestowed, you have a life well lived.” Thanks Steve, for showing us an example of a life well-lived.