Tellervo “Tillie” Freeholm
Tellervo “Tillie” Freeholm passed away on Monday, November 29, 2010 at the age of 93 at Heritage Manor in Chisholm. Tillie requested no memorial services or “big doings” at the time of her passing. A spring private interment will be at Hibbing Maple Hill Cemetery. Arrangements are with Range Funeral Home in Hibbing.
Tillie was born April 11, 1917 in Wakefield, Michigan to Thomas and Olga (Liebakka) Narva.
Tillie grew up in Toivola and farmed with her husband, Eino, in Little Swan for nearly 65 years. She served as treasurer on the Lavell Town board for many years. In 2008, with the assistance of County Commissioner Steve Rauker, she completed and submitted to the National Park Service an oral history of her experiences working as “Rosie the Riveter” in the San Francisco shipyards during World War II.
Tillie was known for her quick wit, ready laughter and being outspoken. She will be missed by friends and neighbors alike.
A special thanks to Dr. Amy Hilde-Philips and nurse Brandy, the North Star Hospice staff, and caregivers at Heritage Manor for their conscientious compassionate care given to Tillie during her final months.
Tillie was preceded in death by her husband, Eino Freeholm; and her brother, Theodore Narva.
She is survived by nephew, Tom Narva; niece, Ann (Mike) Suomis; and “Like a Daughter”, Lona Ann Schreiber.
