Obituary of Lori Jean Marttila

Lori Jean Marttila, 66 of Barnum passed away on Tuesday, June 8, 2021 in Sunnyside Health Care Center in Cloquet. She was born July 12, 1954 in Cloquet to Swante and Gladys Marttila. She grew up in Floodwood and graduated in 1972. As a young teen, Lori enjoyed being part of a pen pal program, making friends with kids from other countries. She began her long career of taking care of others early, babysitting neighborhood children and being an at-home aide for a disabled neighbor. After high school she began working for the State of MN at Moose Lake State Hospital, later transferring to Bethel House in Duluth. Lori loved animals and after retiring had time to spoil her cat and keep up with her favorite Animal Planet and NatGeoWild shows. She also loved to read, do jigsaw puzzles and word searches, and test her luck with slot machines. For the last year of her mother's life, Lori was her daily companion and helper. Her dry sense of humor will be missed by her siblings who survive her, Patti Marttila, James Marttila, Gary (Elaine) Marttila, Kathy (Mark) Johnsen, Duane (Martha) Larson, and Carol (Bruce) Kelsey; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and special friend, Russell Skelton. To honor Lori's request, there will be no services. Arrangements entrusted to Atkins Northland Funeral Home, Cloquet. To sign the guest book and offer an online tribute, see www.atkinsnorthlandfuneralhome.com