Maija L. Erickson

She was born Oct. 18, 1931, in Pielisjarvi, Finland, daughter of the late Arri Johonuas and Saimi Elina Koukkari. Maija grew up and graduated high school in Finland. After high school, she resided in London, England, where she worked for a few years before returning to Finland, where she went to school for hotel and restaurant operations.

From 1958 until 1962, Maija operated Puijon Ski Lodge. It was in 1962 when she met Willie Erickson, who was staying at the lodge along with the U.S. Ski Jumping Team as they trained before traveling to Poland to participate in the World Championships.

Maija married Willie on Nov. 5, 1962, in Joensuu, Finland. They moved to the United States in 1963 and have enjoyed 59 years of marriage and 57 years of successful business operations throughout the community.

Maija was a member of Our Saviours Lutheran Church in Iron Mountain, and was an avid oil painter, and her work was admired by many. She especially loved the time she spent with her children and grandchildren, who were so dear to her.

Survivors include her husband, Willie Erickson of Breitung Township; one son, Will (Kelli Ellis) Erickson of Iron Mountain; one daughter, Lanita Erickson of Spread Eagle, Wis.; two grandchildren, Haley Erickson of Park City, Utah, and Annikka (Chris Roel) Erickson of Austin, Texas.

In addition to her parents, Maija was preceded in death by four brothers and one sister.

In accordance with Maija’s wishes, private family services will be held.

Friends may leave condolences and tributes to Maija’s family online at www.jacobsfuneralhomes.com.

The family has chosen the Jacobs Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Iron Mountain, to honor Maija’s legacy of life.