Irja H. Koski

Irja H. (Fondie) Koski, 91, of Aurora Funeral Services will be 1 PM Monday, February 25, 2013 at the United Methodist Church in Aurora with Pastor Barb Hegfors officiating. Visitation will be 3-6 PM Sunday at the Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Aurora and continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the Forest Hill Cemetery in Aurora. Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers. Irja Helena (Fondie) Koski, 91, of Aurora died Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at the Eveleth Health Services Park. She was born on October 19, 1921 to Jacob and Julia Maria (Hungasluoma) Kesti in Aurora, formerly known as Meadow Location. She grew up and attended school in Aurora. She was an avid swimmer and violist while attending school. On May 27, 1939 she was united in marriage to Henry Fondie. The couple made their home in Aurora and raised a family. Irja was actively involved in many community organizations, including the Order of Rebekahs where she served as a Vice-President, the United Methodist Church in Aurora, Bowling Leagues, and the DARE Program. Irja loved her Finnish heritage and culture and animals. She enjoyed gardening, baking, and dancing. Irja loved her Finnish heritage and culture. It was through dancing she connected with Owen Koski whom she married later in life, following Henry's passing. Survivors include: Children: Dixie Mengelkoch of Blaine, MN Jerry (Vicki) Fondie of Blaine, MN Joe (Diane) Fondie of Skibo, MN Julia Maria Norby of Aurora, MN Linda LaCount (Denny Mikkelson) of Hoyt Lakes, MN Jack (Dalinda) Fondie of NY, NY 15 grandchildren 28 great grandchildren 3 great-great grandchildren One stepson: John (Trina) Koski of Fargo, ND One niece: Janice Madden of Duluth, MN She was preceded in death by her husbands, Henry Fondie and Owen Koski; three sisters, Mary, Celia, and Elma; one brother, Jack; and her parents.