Obituary of Lt. Col. Bruno "Kal" Kolhonen

Lt Col Bruno “Kal” Kolhonen AUS retired, passed away in peace at age 90 in Southport, NC, on November 15, 2007. He resided for many years in West Simsbury, Connecticut. He was born June 21, 1917 in Peabody, Massachusetts to Simo and Anna Kolhonen, and was predeceased by them and older siblings Kasper, Warren, Edwin, Arnold, and Katherine. As a youth, Kal was an avid member of the Boy Scouts of America, especially enjoying the camping trips to Old Orchard Beach, ME. In 1941 he entered the US Army, was commissioned at Officer Candidate School, served in Europe during WW II, and later in both the Korean Conflict and Viet Nam. He received numerous military honors, and his assignments included Japan, Germany, and many bases in the US. Kal is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Helen; daughter and son in law Ellen and Stephen Simon of Southport, NC; granddaughters Susan Meredith Simon of Richmond VA, and Paige Elizabeth Simon of Alexandria, VA. Those close to him include loving sister in law Elly Monson of West Peabody, as well as many caring nieces, nephews, family friends and neighbors. “Papa” will always be remembered for his sweet nature, “Sisu” the strong Finnish spirit, and his proud service to our country. The family will receive friends Tuesday, November 27, from 6 to 8pm at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 20 Church St. Peabody Facility. Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 28, at 11:00 AM at the funeral home chapel, with interment to follow in Oak Grove Cemetery with full military honors. Memorial gifts may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607-1460.