Erkki ‘Eric’ Alestalo, 90, of Vero Beach, passed away on June 25, 2014.
He is survived by his two sons, Erkki (Sharon), and Eric (Barbara); grandchildren, Elizabeth and Ryan Baxter, Sarah and Kristofer Alestalo; great-grandchildren, Jack and Lily Baxter; and nephews and nieces in Finland.
Alestalo was a self-made man. His start in life was not easy given given the times in Finland.
He was a soldier in the Finnish Army and fought against the Russian Army. There were few opportunities post WWII for a young man. He found jobs on freighters and traveled the world. The stories he could tell from his adventures!
He returned to Finland and married Maire Tuulikki Sederholm in 1952, and immigrated to the US in 1955 with his wife and young son, Erkki (Jr). In 1956, his second son, Eric was born.
Alestalo lived the “American Dream” with his family, establishing a successful home building business.
He retired to his much loved Vero Beach in 1984. The ocean drew him, but also his many friends at Cravings, whom he joined each morning.
A “Remembrance Opportunity” will be held from 7:30-8:30 a.m., Thursday, July 3, at Cravings, in Vero Beach.
He had a good long run, filled with adventures, family, and many friends.
He will be missed.
