Sympathetic builder's work took him around the world

Diplomi-insinööri Markku Juhani Arvilommi, remembered as a sympathetic builder, passed away on April 24, 2026, at the age of 88 in Helsinki. Born in Kotka on July 11, 1937, Arvilommi was a lieutenant in the navy and graduated from the Helsinki University of Technology's construction department in 1964. He was recognized for his active contributions to student communities, receiving the TKY's golden badge of merit.

Arvilommi's professional life was characterized by strong commitment and leadership in construction projects both in Finland and internationally. His career began with Outokumpu Oy in 1965 as the construction manager for a new mine in Elijärvi, Kemi, which was a key part of a planned ferrochrome plant. His work with Outokumpu took him to projects in Tornio, Kokkola, Nivala, and Outokumpu itself.

His international assignments included overseeing the construction of a copper smelter in South Korea from 1978–1979 and managing the construction of a ferrochrome plant in Greece from 1980–1983, both times with his family accompanying him. He later took on a mining project in Canada from 1987–1988.

Beyond his professional achievements, Arvilommi shared nearly 60 years of marriage with his wife, Eeva, and they raised three daughters and were blessed with five grandchildren. His life was also deeply connected to the island of Kuorsalo in the eastern Gulf of Finland, where he spent summers from childhood. This connection fostered his love for fishing and berry picking and made him a devoted resident who valued the island's traditions. He actively participated in the Kuorsalo Society, serving as its chairman and later as an honorary member. For over 40 years, he also played in the local folk music group Woxi-Weikot.

Arvilommi's passing leaves a significant void for his family, relatives, and friends who shared joyful moments with him on Kuorsalo. He was laid to rest in the Kuorsalo cemetery.