Juhani R. Harju

Juhani Reiner Harju, 80, of Two Harbors, died Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at his apartment at Waterview Shores Nursing Home.

Juhani was born September 21, 1945 in Jalasjarvi, FInland, the son of Isakki and Halve (Mannikko). He was part of a large family, all of whom helped take care of the farm caring for cows, planting potatoes, and putting up hay. Juhani graduated from High School, then went on to serve in the Puolustusvoimat, or Finnish Army.

For several years after school and the service, he worked as a cabinet maker. On September 11, 1967, Juhani married Tuula Marjatta Kuusiluoma and in 1969 they decided to move to the United States.

While learning English and making friends in Two Harbors, Juhani worked as a carpenter, eventually running his own business building and remodeling custom homes. Juhani was a talented craftsman and many of his homes and work can still be seen around the Northland.

In his younger days, he was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, trapping, skiing, sawyering, competitive shooting, and farming. After saving and working hard, he and Tuula bought a farm in the country and built a house for their family where Juhani was able to raise cows, plant potatoes and put up hay once again. Sadly, in the fall of 1990, he suffered an accident that left him paralyzed.

While this drastically changed the course of his life, Juhani was still very active. He loved attending auctions and sales, collecting and selling blacksmithing equipment, riding all around town (often with a beloved dog as his companion) to supervise any and all job-sites in the area, and passing on his knowledge of carpentry, tractors, and farming to his son. He loved spending time with and spoiling his two grandchildren. He was especially proud of all they did and accomplished.

Juhani is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Tuula; his brother, Erkki Harju (Alli); and nephew John Harju (Penni). Remaining to cherish Juhani’s memory are his son, Don Michael Harju (Andrea); his grandchildren, Fynn and Ilo; his great nephew, Erik (Megan); as well as siblings, and nieces and nephews still living in Finland.

A memorial service will be held Monday, October 20, at 11:00AM at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Two Harbors. Lunch will be served after the service.