Hilma A. Heikkinen peacefully passed away at her Montesano home with her sons at her side on Friday Oct. 14, 2016 after a brief illness. She was 86. Hilma was born on April 22, 1930 to Issakki and Helena (Helimaki) Valkama in Jalasjärvi, Finland.

She was the fourth of ten children and when her mother died during WWII, Hilma was given the responsibility to help raise her five younger brothers and sisters. Hilma loved children her entire life.

In 1953 she came to the U.S. to work as an aupair in Hoquiam. She then met the other love of her life, Charles Heikkinen. Chuck and Hilma were married at the Saron Lutheran Church in 1956. They made their home in Montesano and raised a family. Hilma lived happily in the same house for 60 years.

Hilma is survived by her sons Keith Heikkinen of Durham, N.C. and Eric Heikkinen of Montesano, Wash.; sister Kyllikki Niemala of Kanus, Finland; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Charles E. Heikkinen; brothers Matti, Eino, Erkki, Paavo, and Jussi; and sisters Eila, Ellen, and Martta.

Harrison Family Mortuary of Montesano is honored to assist the family. To share a memory or express condolences, visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com.