Todd Mitchell Pontinen

Todd Mitchell Pontinen, 55, passed away on October 27, 2024 after heart bypass surgery. He was born April 23, 1969 to Lee “Butch” Pontinen and Kathie Koskie. He was a 1987 graduate of Eveleth Gilbert High School and went on to study electrical engineering at the University of Minnesota Duluth. From there, he worked in mining and for Cleveland Cliffs as an Electrical Planner for 27 years.

Todd found joy in being in the woods in the fall, watching a Vikings game, listening to metal and rock music, cooking a delicious meal, making others laugh, and telling a story. He told such vivid and detailed stories that a person could feel like they were right there experiencing it with him. He enjoyed the small things in life, like being around family and friends and watching his favorite shows. Todd was humorous, exuberant, and thoughtful. Todd was a beloved father, son, brother, and friend.

He is survived by his two children Kyle and Gray Pontinen, his mother Kathie Koskie (Will Winger), his brother Ryan (Stacy) Pontinen, and his niece Annika Pontinen. He is preceded in death by his father Lee Pontinen and grandparents: Eli & Aune Pontinen and Howard & Dagmar Kuitunen.

Todd did not wish to have a traditional funeral, so a celebration of life will be held Saturday, November 2nd at the Gilbert Community Center starting at 1pm.