Hannu Putkuri

Hannu Juhani Putkuri passed away November 7, 2025 at Interfaith Center Carlton. He was born in Vahviala, Finland on December 19, 1935. He attended schools in Finland and as a young man worked in Finland and Sweden.

He immigrated to Canada and then the United States. He became a naturalized citizen on December 8, 1964. He worked at Northwest Paper/Potlatch while attending College. After completing his studies, he was hired by Ray Riihiluoma Construction and worked there until his retirement.  

He and his friend Veikko liked to spend winters in Lake Worth, Florida. They travelled on vacations to Mexico, Canada, and the United States.  

He will be missed by his adopted families Torniainen, Hegges, Rahkolas, Kamunens, Bridges,and Davises and also the many friends who got to know him and welcomed him into their lives.

He was a gentle, friendly and outgoing man. His strong work ethic and sisu carried him through his health issues.  

He was proceeded in death by his parents, 3 sisters and 2 brothers.   He is survived by a sister Leila Gummerus and numerous nephews and nieces in Finland. He is especially close to his nephew Peetu Lappalainen and his family who visited him often in Florida and Minnesota.  

A special thanks to Suncrest, Inter-Faith, and especially Moments Hospice Nurse Tracy.  

A visitation followed by a funeral service will take place on November 15, at The Esko Apostolic Lutheran Church, 25 Church Rd, Esko, MN 55733. Visitation will begin at 11 AM with a Funeral Service at Noon.