Leena M Ericksen

With love and deep sadness, we announce the passing of Leena Margareta Johnson-Eriksen-Bryant, who passed away at home on July 31, 2026, at the age of 70, following years of courageously facing numerous health challenges.

Leena was intelligent, quick-witted, and always ready with a joke that could brighten anyone's day. Even through her many health struggles, she never lost her sense of humor. Her ability to find laughter in difficult times was a gift to everyone who knew and loved her.

A true adventurer at heart, Leena traveled extensively throughout the world and embraced every opportunity to experience new places, people, and cultures. She had an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for life's many wonders. Leena loved going to see the Grateful Dead, hiking in Southern Utah and spending time at the” little house in the woods” (Dutch John).

Leena also had an extraordinary love for animals. Her home was rarely without a beloved dog, cat, pig, or another cherished companion. She often joked that she liked animals more than people, but those who knew her understood that her heart was big enough to love them all.

Born on January 7, 1956, in Finland, Leena immigrated to the United States in 1963 with her mother and two elder sisters aboard the Queen Mary, beginning a new chapter that would shape the rest of her life.

Leena is survived by her beloved daughters, Angela and Amanda; her cherished grandchildren, Tristan, Ava, Jameson, Zander, Dominique and Tia; her sister, Lenette; and her brother, Steve. She was preceded in death by her parents, Delmar and Anneli, and her sisters, Annele and Liisa.

Leena will be remembered for her adventurous spirit and infectious laughter. It has been said of her that there are few stronger, smarter and wiser than she was. Though she will be deeply missed, her humor, love, and unforgettable spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.