Harry's obituary
Harry Lamppa, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, friend and historian/teacher, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2025, in Virginia, Minnesota. He was 90 years old.
Born in Embarrass, Minnesota, Harry spent most of his life in Virginia, where he built a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. In 1956, he married the love of his life, Joan (Engstrom) Lamppa. They shared 67 wonderful years of marriage before Joan’s passing in 2023.
Harry was deeply passionate about his faith in Jesus and lived a life of devotion, service, and purpose. He generously volunteered his time at many community centers throughout the Iron Range and was known for his boundless curiosity and love of learning. His commitment to health, knowledge, and spiritual growth inspired all who knew him. Harry was Valedictorian of his graduating class and suitably named, “The Walking Encyclopedia,” in his high school yearbook.
Harry will be remembered for his quick wit, deep intelligence, and enduring loyalty to his family. Some of his greatest joys included gardening, singing and playing piano, teaching others, and spending peaceful days with his loved ones at the family cabin in Ely, Minnesota.
Harry’s memory will be cherished by his daughter Renee (Alan); his grandchildren Jonathan (Sara), Katelyn (Daniel), and Olivia; and his great-grandchildren Aurora, Tommy, Hayden, James, and Mary. Thanks to great friend and cousin John Haryn as he and Harry had ongoing lively and memorable discussions throughout their many decades of life Special thanks also to nephew Jeff Burton and family friends Kristi and Hilda for the unwavering love, loyalty and friendship they showed Harry through good and sometimes tough times.
Harry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Lamppa; his parents, Elmer and Hulda Lamppa; brothers, Howard Lamppa and Kenneth Lamppa; sister, Shirley Burton; and his son, Gregory Lamppa.
Sunday, June 29th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Expectancy Church in Mountain Iron, Minnesota. All who knew and loved Harry are welcome to attend and celebrate his life. If you plan to join us, please kindly RSVP at https://everloved.com/life-of….
Harry’s legacy of faith, love, and laughter lives on in the hearts of those he touched.