Rudolph William "Putter" Tahtinen, Jr., 48, of Poplar, died unexpectedly Sunday June 26, 2011 at his residence.

Rudy was born in Memphis, Tenn. on Feb. 26, 1963 the son of Christine (Butler) and Rudolph Tahtinen, Sr.

He served his country in the Marines.

Rudy worked 25 years for the American Steamship Company as a distinguished Merchant Mariner. He enjoyed the outdoors especially fishing and hunting and going to auctions.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Rudy is survived by his wife, Lynette; children, Sherri (Ken) Hildreth of Tenn., Stewart (Jillian) Tahtinen of Superior, Heather (Travis) Hinkel of Duluth, Bridgett (Casey) Tahtinen of Poplar and Conlan Hinkel of Poplar; grandson, Ryan Michael Preston; four sisters, Kathleen Tahtinen of Lake Nebagamon, Barbara (Ted) Yox of Lake Nebagamon, Sandy Landy of Milwaukee and Debbie Tahtinen of Tyler, Texas; his best friend, Vern Eshelman; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be on Thurs. June 30 from 1:00 until the 2:00 pm memorial service at Peace Lutheran Church, Poplar. Rev. Greg Gullicksrud will officiate. Inurnment will be in Lakeside Cemetery with Military Honors accorded by the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post # 435.

Downs Funeral Home, corner of 19th St. and Ogden Ave., is assisting the family with arrangements.