A life's work in communications

Anssi Eetu Väinämö Siukosaari, an agronomist and Master of Science, died in Espoo on August 5, 2026, at the age of 91. He was born in Kouvola on July 8, 1935.

Communication became the central work of his life. After studying agricultural sciences, he continued his education in the United States, specializing in mass communication, and graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1969. His years there strongly influenced him and his views on communication.

Siukosaari worked across the communications field as a journalist, public relations professional and teacher. He began at Yle with agricultural programs and later became editor-in-chief of Tuulilasi magazine. Under his leadership, it grew into Finland's largest automotive magazine. He went on to establish the Automotive Information Centre, lead communications at Scan-Auto, and work through Uusi Suomi as an entrepreneur and teacher.

For 20 years, he taught community and corporate communications at the University of Helsinki and the Helsinki School of Economics. President Tarja Halonen awarded him the honorary title of director in 2008. He also wrote 12 books, ranging from travel by car and company histories to communications textbooks.

Friends and family remember his sincere commitment to whatever he undertook. He was active in the family association, the Finnish Automobile Historical Society and Rotary. Travel became a shared family hobby, while his interest in people shaped his approach to teaching and relationships. “Schools teach us presentation and speaking, but not the most important thing, listening,” he often said. He practiced that lesson by listening and being present. He also regularly emphasized the importance of feedback, especially through encouraging letters.

Siukosaari shared 65 years with his wife, Anna-Maija. Their family included two children and five grandchildren, and their summer place in Inkoo brought him particular joy. He was especially proud of its smoke sauna, where friends and relatives enjoyed the gentle heat he prepared.

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Schools teach us presentation and speaking, but not the most important thing, listening.