Paul Emil Laikko

Paul Emil Laikko, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on July 4, 2024 at the age of 71. Paul was born on March 5, 1953, to Reino and Eunice Laikko. He grew up in Vancouver, Washington and later moved to Nebraska.

Paul was a man of many virtues: even-tempered, endlessly patient, and always observant. He had a remarkable ability to anticipate the needs of those around him, demonstrating loyalty and love in every action. He cherished simple pleasures, from enjoying a good glass of wine to playing catch or shooting hoops with his grandchildren. He cherished his trips with family to Europe and various destinations around the United States. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of love and unwavering support. His life was a testament to the impact of simple, yet profound, acts of kindness and dedication. He dedicated his professional life to helping others while working at the Munroe-Meyer Institute for over 36 years as a speech-language pathologist. His compassion and expertise made a significant impact on the lives of countless children and their families. He was recently honored with the University of Nebraska Kudos award, which recognized his lifelong dedication to his profession. Paul found immense joy in helping kids with speech and swallowing impairments leading to countless moments when a child could say their name or tell their parents, "I love you," for the first time.

A dedicated animal lover, he spent many hours helping homeless animals. Paul and his wife Karen have saved countless animals and given a loving home to a large collection of their own.

Music was also a big part of his life. Ever thrifty, Paul loved music and routinely “borrowed” CDs from his family or checked them out from the library.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents.

Paul is survived by Karen, his wife of 29 years; daughters: Liisa (Andrew Ellifson) Laikko, Leah (Brandon) Flowers, Chole (Timothy) Riedel, Royce (Cody) Forbush, Kelsi Lemon; brother Bruce (Teresa) Laikko; nephews Joel Hentzen and Daniel Laikko; and niece Laura Laikko. He is further survived by his grandchildren Brison, Brooklynn, Mason, Carter, Miles, Wesley, Drake, Rowen, Kennedy, and Madison. Paul is also survived by his lifelong friends Mike and Liz Johnson, Dave Leach, and Crayton Lankford.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 2pm at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center at 202 S. 20th St, Omaha, NE 68102.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Munroe-Meyer Institute (https://www.mfdisabilities.org) or Homeward Bound in the Heartland Animal Rescue (https://hbith.org).