Obituary of Bertha Savonen

Bertha Savonen died Aug. 23, 2015 in Duluth, at age 86. Bertha, a woman with a strong, unshakeable faith joined her husband of 64 years, Toivo, who died suddenly July 2014. Bertha was born in Van Buskirk, Wis., the youngest of five children born to Hilda and William Peltomaki. She was proud of her Finnish heritage, with sisu and love as her foundation in her marriage and role in raising her five children. She and Toivo, the love of her life, held family as their primary focus. Bertha received great joy in helping others. She volunteered at the Silver Bay Vets Home, in the schools with the children and in her neighborhood doing for others. She was an active member of Sychar Lutheran Church and Mission Circle, Garden Club, North Shore Ski Club and Superior Hiking Trail Assoc. Bertha thoroughly enjoyed her role as wife and mother. Her eyes twinkled when she spoke of her family including four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She is survived by her five children John, Loren, Darlene (Rod) Nelson, Tina (Gary) Petterenti, Linda Martin; grandchildren Jessica, Shawn, LeAnne, Brian; great- grandchildren Taylor, Aidan, Oliver, Evelyn; special nieces and friends. Bertha was always generous with her hugs and often said the greatest word is love. MEMORIAL SERVICE: 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 31, 2015 in Sychar Lutheran Church, 14 Edison Blvd, Silver Bay, Minn. Visitation is one hour before the service. Luncheon to follow the service.