Albert "Aaby" Raymond Haavisto

Albert “Aaby” Raymond Haavisto passed away on May 26, 2026, at the age of 90.

Al was born at home in Sandy Township, Minnesota, to Carl Solomon Haavisto and Jennie Elizabeth (Maki) Haavisto. He graduated from Embarrass High School in 1953 and later met Carol “Jean” Glatch in Gilbert, Minnesota, whom he married in September 1960.

In 1958, Al enlisted in the United States Army, serving for two years in Germany as a Nuclear Weapons Maintenance Specialist. Following his active-duty service, he continued serving in the United States Army Reserves until 1964. Al and Jean were married in September 1960 and began building a life together that would span more than six decades.

Al worked at the Pioneer Underground Mine in Ely, Minnesota. Prior to the mine’s closure in 1967, he entered the apprenticeship program at Pilotac, and then worked at Minntac, where he held a variety of positions throughout his career. Before retiring at the age of 53 in 1989, his last position was working in the electrical repair shop.

Al and Jean first made their home in Ely. After Al’s transfer to Minntac, they purchased a home in Sandy Township, where they lived for 60 years—just one mile from where Al had grown up.

During the early years of retirement, Al and Jean enjoyed traveling to the West Coast. He especially loved spending time outdoors, riding his four-wheeler, working on jigsaw puzzles, and puttering around the yard. Al was an avid sports fan who particularly enjoyed NASCAR racing and cheering on the Minnesota Vikings.

Al is survived by his wife, Jean; daughters Sharon Haavisto (Frank Germ) and Carol (Mike) Zabloski; sons Brian (Kelly) Haavisto and James (Won) Haavisto; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and his special feline companion, Mia.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Luella Holstrom; and his brothers, Robert Haavisto and Henry Lowe.

A celebration of life gathering will be announced and held at a later date.