Republic – Saimi L. "Slim" Linna, age 92 of 309 Hemlock St., Republic passed away on Tuesday May 1, 2012 at her home in Republic while under the Loving care of her family and the Upper Peninsula Home Health and Hospice.


Saimi was born July 19, 1919 in Humboldt Twp. the daughter of Matt and Anna (Luikku) Lyyski, and was a lifelong Republic area resident. Saimi was a homemaker, enjoying her time as a Girl Scout Leader. Saimi was an excellent seamstress and knitter having made and donated many baby outfits for unwed mothers throughout her lifetime. Saimi also made doll clothing, and enjoyed painting. She was a member of the Bethany Lutheran Church of Republic, where she had been involved with the quilters and helped with the church newsletter.


Survivors include 3 daughters – Arlene Honkala of Ishpeming, Delores Thomas of Republic and Sandra (Rick) Travis of Republic, a son Kenneth (Donna) Linna of Millbrook, AL, a sister Linda Swanson of Republic, 12 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, a cousin Viola Langson of Negaunee, along with numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Bill Linna in 1973, 2 sisters – Laura Mattson and Veino Mattson, and 5 brothers - Lawrence, Leonard, Leo, Arvo and Eino Lyyski.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 10 -11am on Friday, May 4, 2012 at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic. Funeral services will follow at 11:00am on Friday at the Bethany Lutheran Church with the Rev. Doug Nordquist to officiate. Interment will take place at the Republic Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Saimi's grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Bethany Lutheran Church.