Norman Michael “Mike” Kauppi, 68, passed away suddenly on April 20, 2026, at Riverside Community Hospital with his beloved wife and brother-in-law by his side.

Mike was born on March 25, 1958, in Virginia, Minnesota, to Norman and Carol Kauppi. Though shy as a child, he grew into a talented athlete and became a high school basketball standout while attending Aurora-Hoyt Lakes High School, graduating in 1976. Mike valued lifelong friendships, especially the bond he shared with his best friend, John Latola, whom he met while waiting for their first-grade immunizations.

After attending Bemidji State University, Mike chose to serve his country by joining the United States Navy in 1978. As an AT1 and AT2 aircraft mechanic aboard the USS Forrestal and USS America, he traveled the world and proudly served until 1986. While stationed at China Lake, Mike found the place that would become his lifelong home.

Following his military service, Mike began his career with NAWC as a flight test engineer, contributing to the HARM and AARGM programs. Known for his skill, dedication, and quiet professionalism, he became highly respected in his field before retiring in 2014.

In 2002, Mike met the love of his life, Gina. They married in 2008 aboard the riverboat Celebration in Laughlin, Nevada, and built a life filled with love, laughter, family, and friendship.

Mike loved college basketball and eagerly anticipated March Madness each year, faithfully rooting for Duke, Kansas, and Gonzaga. More than anything, he cherished time spent with family and friends. His calm spirit, loyalty, and gentle heart touched countless lives and will never be forgotten.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Georgina “Gina” Kauppi; son Jon (Sydney) Kauppi; daughter Erin (Matt) Brown; sisters Cheryl See, Doreen (Larry) Storm, Bonnie (Tom) Ebnet, and Lynn Hochevar; grandchildren Scarlett and Eli Kauppi, Phoebe Ferrell, and Paige Brown; brothers-in-law Jeff Blyler and James (Caitlin) Marshall; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Carol Kauppi; his brother, Jon Kauppi; his in-laws Jim and Dixie Marshall and George Blyler.

Celebration of Life

May 30, 2026 • 11:00 a.m.
The Lighthouse
Ridgecrest, California

Military Honors arranged by Holland & Lyons Mortuary

Final resting place:
Rauha Cemetery
Palo, Minnesota

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Remember Me

“Perhaps they are not stars in the sky,
but rather openings where our loved ones shine down
to let us know they are happy.”