Ailie Sofia Huhta

Ailie was born to Hilma and Albert Maki in Cromwell, Minnesota on June 23, 1921.

Ailie was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Tony Huhta. Ailie and Tony ran Tony’s Market, a small grocery store at the corner of 7th Street and 8th Avenue East in Duluth, for 47 years, where Ailie was given the nickname “Mrs. Tony” by those who shopped there.

Ailie was active in Eastern Star Trinity Chapter 242 beginning in the mid-1950s where she met her lifelong friend, Mildred Mathison, of Duluth. Mildred and Ailie talked by telephone twice per day for over 10 years after both their husbands passed away. Ailie was also an active volunteer with the Masonic Sewing Circle for over 25 years.

Ailie is survived by her children, Milton (Jackie), Peggy (Lane) Barton, and Delano (Robbin); her grandchildren, Tony, Lisa, Trisha, Jason, Laurie, Joshua, Katie, and Tara; and her many great-grandchildren.

Ailie’s family would like to thank Essentia Hospice Services for their attentive and compassionate care, especially the selfless care of volunteer Betsy Cirkl.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Essentia Hospice Services or Solvay Hospice House.

FUNERAL SERVICE: 11 a.m. Thursday, September 13, with visitation one hour prior at Bell Brothers / Jarvi Dowd Funeral Home, 925 E 4th Street, in Duluth. To leave a memory of Ailie or words of support, please visit www.bellbrothersjarvidowd.com