Harold Lee Salminen

Harry Salminen age 71 of Detroit Lakes, MN passed away March 16, 2016 at Emmanuel Nursing Home in Detroit Lakes with his wife Barbara by his side. Harry Salminen was born on April 5, 1944 in Cleveland, Ohio and moved to Ely, MN as an infant. Throughout his life Harry was an avid sportsman. He excelled in swimming as a young man and earned a scholarship to attend Bemidji State University, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. He moved to Detroit Lakes, MN, promoted by a great friend George Oja. He taught and coached swimming, golf and various other sports in Detroit Lakes. Harry later became a business entrepreneur. He owned and operated the Lakes Area Press and Bunnell’s Bar and Grill in Detroit Lakes. He also owned sawmill and logging companies, and was co-owner of a car business with his friend Marv Kostelecky. He also worked in construction, and at one time served as a Becker County Commissioner in District 2. Harry and Barbara West Salminen had a wonderful marriage, enjoying each other and reinventing love each day! They were blessed with many caring and loving family and friends. Harry is survived by his wife, Barbara; a sister Nancy and Brother in law Bill; numerous nieces and nephews; sisters in law, Jane Spaeth and Evelyn Grignon; and brothers in law, Steve Spaeth, Tom West, and Al West. Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Millie Salminen; and brother in law, John Grignon. The family would like to thank Dr. Henke, Dr. Hendrickson, Emmanuel Nursing Home staff and Hospice of the Red River Valley for all their care, compassion, and education throughout Harry’s long battle with Lymes Disease. Harry will be greatly missed by his wife, family, and friends. Harry would encourage everyone to be thankful for each hour of each day.