Margit Jamieson, a.k.a. Eila Margit Elisabet Salonen Jamieson, age 81, of Leroy Township, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on June 4, 2024.
She was born in Juva, Finland, on Oct. 30, 1942, to Ilmari and Toini (nee Savolainin) Salonen.
Margit epitomized the Finnish word Sisu in both life and death. She was tenacious, strong willed, courageous, resilient and determined to succeed in the face of overwhelming odds.
Margit left her impoverished and difficult childhood in Finland with a seventh-grade education and immigrated to America in 1960 where she flourished. With the support of her sponsors and mentors she graduated from high school in three years.
Margit met the love of her life, Jim, and they married Nov. 24, 1965.
She continued her passion for education at Lake Erie College, pursuing her scientific interests. She took a break to raise three exceptional daughters, Katrina, Ann Marie and Carol. Her dedication and determination helped her youngest special needs daughter Carol reach her full potential.
Margit returned to college and graduated with a BSN from Kent State University. She enjoyed a successful nursing career as an intensive care nurse at St Luke’s Hospital. She left a lasting impression on her patients due to her compassionate care and dedication to their comfort and well-being.
Margit finished her career as an educator, training returning nurses in the current skills and technologies at Cleveland State University. She made a lasting impact on her students, many of whom were grateful for her direct, patient, knowledgeable and compassionate methods to successfully train them to provide the best nursing care.
Margit’s interests were multifaceted. She was an avid reader, gardener, seamstress and nature lover. She was also a highly skilled cook, preparing large meals.
Most of all, Margit thrived on her relationships with her family and friends, having a positive influence on the many people she encountered. Becoming a grandmother, Mummu,
to Ayla and Brenna, she shared her passions and infinite love and helped them develop into the women they are today. She was overjoyed when her great-granddaughter, Lark, became part of her life. She spent every moment she could with her.
After retiring, she spent half the year at her Gunflint Lake cabin along the Minnesota/Canadian border. She was an active and valued member of the community, developing many friendships.
Margit was also a world traveler, exploring every continent. She fulfilled her lifelong dream journeying to Antarctica in January 2023 with her family.
Margit leaves behind Jim, her devoted husband of 58 years; daughters Katrina (Brian) King and Ann Marie (Tim) Whipkey; granddaughters, Ayla (Jake) Soderberg and Brenna King; great-granddaughter, Lark Soderberg; siblings Kaarlo Salonen, Charles Kujala, Marilyn Pirjo Salonen Kujala; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her daughter Carol Jamieson; and siblings Sirkka Timonen, Annalee Ilenda and Bryan Kujala.
A Celebration for Life will be held at Hellriegel’s Inn, 1840 Mentor Ave., Painesville, on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, from 5-8 p.m. Dinner will be served with a service at 6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Association.
The post Margit Jamieson first appeared on Geauga County Maple Leaf.