Rich Laaksonen
Captain Richard “Rich” Laaksonen, 59, of Ludington, a legendary figure of the Michigan charter fishing community and a true outdoorsman, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Rich was a passionate fisherman and a loyal friend who lived his life by the words tattooed over his heart: “Fishing is my passion, my family is my life.”
Born on January 5, 1967, Rich grew up in Kalamazoo, but his heart was always tied to the water. He spent his summers in Ludington, living out his dream on Lake Michigan and eventually he made his home there. Rich followed in the footsteps of his father, the late Captain Al Laaksonen, who founded Finlander Charters in 1975. Rich eventually branched out to build his own legacy as the owner and operator of Finpower Charters, a business he ran for over 40 years, becoming a familiar and respected face in St. Joseph, Ludington, and on the waters of Lake Erie.
For over four decades, Rich was a fixture at the docks. He was a notoriously hard worker and known for his generous spirit; he was always the first to help a friend or fellow fisherman in need. Whether it was a mechanical issue or sharing the secret to the best fishing spot, he was always there to lend a hand. When he wasn’t on the lake, Rich cherished the quiet of the woods as an avid outdoorsman, finding peace in the trees just as he did on the waves.
True to his word, family was Rich’s ultimate anchor. He is survived by his loving wife, Tracey, and their children, Kaleb and Kaydence. He was the grandpa to 2-month-old Athena, who is currently braving a rare heart condition; Rich would have been an amazing grandpa, ready to share his love for the outdoors with her. Rich is also survived by his mother, Robbie; his siblings, Wally (Jenn) Laaksonen, Kevin (Linda) Laaksonen, and Tammy (Jamie) Bandstra; his mother-in-law, Sharon Welton; his in-laws, Bob (Laura) Welton and Shelly (Kraig) Anderson; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Albert Laaksonen.
He will be missed by the many friends and fellow captains who knew they could always count on him. In his honor, may there always be tight lines and calm seas.
The family is planning a Celebration of Life to be held later this summer.
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