Wesley Harkonen

Wesley Sulo Harkonen, 90, of Duluth, died Wednesday, December 10, 2014 at the Franciscan Health Center. He was born September 3, 1924 in Orr, Minn. to Sulo and Ann (Laine) Harkonen. After graduating from Cook High School Wesley enlisted in the Air Force and served as a navigator on the "Flying Fortress" B17 bomber. After the end of WWII, he enrolled at the University of Minnesota and received his degree in Electrical Engineering in 1948 and his registration as a Professional Engineer in 1950. He married Frances Mary Fedor on February 18, 1950 in Minneapolis. Wesley was the founder of Lakehead Electric Company and Continental Engineering Group. He was a member of the Academy of Electrical Contractors, and a past governor of NECA. Wesley was a member of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Cathedral's Knights of Columbus. He was a former member of the Kitchi Gammi Club and Northland Country Club. Wesley was especially proud of his Finish heritage and was a "Master of the Deer Harvest". Wesley's favorite places were Lake Vermilion and Aspen, Colo. He was preceded in death by his parents. Wesley is survived by his wife of over 64 years, Frances; his sons: Timothy (Mary) of Duluth, and W. Scott of San Francisco, CA; four grandchildren: Matthew (Victoria Starr) of Lynchburg, VA, Lukas Sulo of St. Paul, Kirsten Harkonen of San Francisco and Wesley of Berkeley, CA; and his former daughter-in-law Barbara Harkonen of San Francisco. Wesley was a true representative of the "Greatest Generation" and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Family services will be private. Memorials directed to Animal Allies Humane Society, 4006 Airport Rd, Duluth, MN 55811 would be appreciated. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, Duluth, 727-3555.