Obituary of Leo Nels Seikkula

Leo Nels Seikkula passed away on March 31, 2025 at the age of 94.

Leo was born on May 29, 1930 on the family farm in Esko MN to Niilo Seikkula and Hilma (Pera) Seikkula.  Living in the country, his best friend was his younger brother Bob.  Leo attended Esko High School where he excelled in sports. He went to school with his wife of 62 years, Doris Pykkonen from 1st grade to graduation.  However, they didn’t start dating until after high school where they met at a local lake get together.   

They married in 1951 and began married life living in a little cottage one block from the beach in Pismo Beach, CA.  Leo enlisted in the Army ultimately rising to the rank of Sargent.  During the Korean war they were stationed in Paris, France where he worked as a cryptographer coding and decoding messages for Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers of Europe (SHAPE).  After three years of service in the Army, the couple returned to the States where Leo earned a history degree from the University of Minnesota, Duluth. 

In 1956 they moved to Lakeville MN where he taught social studies, economics and history as well as coaching basketball, football and advising the DECA program.  They had four children, Lynn Guenette, Lisa Lord, Lori Seikkula and Luke Seikkula. 

He enjoyed reading, sharing a good joke, a good slice of pie, and watching the news and sports.   

He is survived by his four children, eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren and his brother Bob.  He was predeceased by his parents, wife and three siblings.

Private interment at Ft. Snelling cemetery on June 16, 2025. A memorial reception for family and friends will be held following interment. 

Thank you to Trinity Care Center in Farmington, MN, Grace Hospice, and Cathy Theis for their kindness, care, and compassion. 

A full life well lived.  He will be missed by many.