Lillian Helbacka

Lillian I. Leino, 93, of Pike Township, died Wednesday, July 19, 2006,at the Virginia Convalescent Center.

She was born April 28, 1913, to Victor and Ida (Kangas) Helbacka inEly. She grew up and attended school in Ely, Aurora and Embarrass. Asa young girl she was involved with the 4-H. She, her brother andothers won the Sears Foundation Award, which funded the 4-H Camp nowlocated in Lakeland. Lillian was united in marriage on June 28, 1936,to Walter Leino in Virginia. Following marriage they made their homein Pike, where they had a farm. She also worked for Cluett-PeabodyShirt Factory, the Virginia Hospital and was an agent for Palo MutualFire Insurance.

Lillian was one of the first ethnic artisans at Ironworld. She was aHospitality Host at Anchor Lake and the Tower Train Depot. Lillianvolunteered at the Arrowhead Health Care Center in Virginia and was acharter member of Iron Range Fiber Art, Going to Pieces Quilters andDuluth Creative Stitchers. She enjoyed saunas, Lake Vermilion and hercoffee.

Survivors include daughter, Karen (Fred) Lamppa of Britt;grandchildren, Robert Lamppa of Hudson, Wis., and Sherrie Lamppa(fiance Tim Hansen) of Minneapolis; nieces, Marcella Sarberg of Duluthand Nancy Hannula of Eveleth; and her faithful companion, Jitters.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter; parents; sister,Helen Maki; and brother, Dr. Norman Helbacka.