Eila Peace

Eila Peace, age 73 of Vernon Center passed away peacefully, at her home with her devoted husband by her side, on Sunday November 28, 2021. A memorial service will be held Saturday December 11, 11AM at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Vernon Center with Rev. Adam Finney officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30-11AM at the church prior to the service. Online condolences can be left at www.spencerowen.com

Eila Kaarina was born August 27, 1948, to Viljo and Laina Mattila in Aitoo, Finland. After graduating high school, she went on to get her Horticulture degree in Finland and then in 1971 she came to the University of Minnesota on a work-study program. It was there that she met the love of her life, Robert, who was only supposed to help her improve her English. After moving to Sioux Falls, SD to work at a greenhouse, they married on May 26, 1972. Together they had two children and moved to Vernon Center in 1975 where they raised their family, made many friends, and have lasting memories.

Eila was a private person who mostly kept to herself. She did enjoy her flower and vegetable gardens, being a part of the “Mother’s Club” and going to the casino every now and then. She worked at Pumpkin Land in Vernon Center for many years and then started driving school bus routes, which she did almost up until the week before her passing.

Those left to cherish her memory are her loving husband, Bob; son, Petri Peace of Phoenix, AZ; daughter, Paula (Peter) Andreoli of Springfield, VA; her grandchildren, Nicolas Peace, Peter Andreoli, and Elena Andreoli; her brother, Tauno Mattila of Finland as well as many other extended family members and close friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents.