Esko Rautila, engineer and community leader, dies at 92

Esko Rautila, a diploma engineer and a prominent figure in the Helsinki Central Ostrobothnians association, has died at the age of 92. Born in Himanka on August 5, 1934, Rautila was deeply connected to his roots in the Central Ostrobothnia region of Finland.

Rautila graduated with a degree in automation and electrical engineering from the Helsinki University of Technology in 1960. He dedicated his entire professional life to the field of industrial process automation. For over a decade, he also held positions in design and commerce in various Finnish cities, including Lappeenranta, Tampere, and Helsinki. Additionally, he served as a temporary adjunct professor in process and electrical measurement technology at the University of Oulu and Tampere University of Technology.

Beyond his professional achievements, Rautila was a passionate advocate for his home region. He served as the chairman of the Helsinki Central Ostrobothnians association from 2004 to 2015, initiating the "Central Ostrobothnia Seminars" focused on the region's future. He was also actively involved in maintaining traditions, such as the Seurasaari Easter bonfire. His motto, "It is easier to reach the destination if you know where you are going," reflected his purposeful approach to life and community engagement. He was recognized for his positive, conciliatory attitude, courage, humor, and empathy.

Rautila found joy in both sailing on the Gulf of Finland and the Archipelago Sea, and in cross-country skiing in Lapland and hiking, including a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. After a period of widowhood, he remarried in 2018, enjoying nine happy years with his wife, Liisa. He was honored as an honorary member of the Helsinki Central Ostrobothnians in 2020 for his significant contributions.

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On helepompi päästä perille, jos tietää, mihin on menosa.