Ilmi Karkinen

1933-2020

The private graveside service for Ilmi Karkinen of Sebeka, was held at the Alajoki Cemetery, near Menahga.

Ilmi, age 87, of Sebeka, passed away on Sunday, November 29, 2020 at the Providence Villa in Sebeka, under the gentle care of the Providence Villa staff.

Ilmi Martha Elizabeth Alajoki was born to Hugo and Elizabeth (Nevala) Alajoki on April 19, 1933, at their home in Blueberry Township, Wadena County. At one time in her life she worked in California at Litton Industry, a company that built navigation, communications and electronic warfare equipment. When she returned to the Menahga area Ilmi worked as a nurse’s aid at Green Pine Acres nursing home and farmed with her brother, Jerry. She was a licensed pilot, and enjoyed flying with her sister, Impi, and friends from California.

Ilmi was united in marriage with Walter Karkinen on September 21, 1986, at the Alajoki farm.

Ilmi was preceded in death by her husband Walter; parents Hugo and Elizabeth; stillborn brother Jonathan; sister Impi; sisters-in-law: Rose, Sheryle, and Diane. She is survived by her brothers Jerry, Otto, William, and Urho Alajoki; along with several nieces.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Wevley Funeral Home, Sebeka, MN. Online condolences may be left at www.wevleyfuneralhome.com.