- Valeria

He will be missed.

—Minjie

It is always a group of third year students who are responsible for organising the event. Students, staff and alumni get together to celebrate and have fun.

-Lilit

I ended up having to leave Finland for over two years due to poor health, and it seemed like my studies would never be completed. However, after reaching out to Tommi, he replied without hesitation, assuring me he would do everything in his power to help me return to JAMK. Within a few weeks, I was already flying back to Finland to meet with Tommi and plan my return. Without him, I wouldn’t be at JAMK or even in Finland today. I can never thank him enough for what he has done for me. His selflessness and support are qualities I deeply admire, and I’ll never forget them.

Last semester, Tommi informed me that I needed to complete one of his courses, an introductory class on logistics, despite being near the end of my studies. At first, I was a bit upset because as a typical lazy student that meant I would have to get out of bed every Tuesday morning. But every time I attended the class, it brightened my day. Tommi and I would always have a little chat about anything and everything. Watching him teach the new students brought back memories of my first classes with him back in 2017, and it felt truly special to be there.

At the end of the semester, we had a test. Tommi walked around to check on how everyone was doing, and when he got to me, we had a good laugh about how easy the test was for me. I’ve never felt so smart!

Unfortunately, that was the last time I saw Tommi, and it still doesn’t feel real. Going to JYP games will never be the same, knowing I won’t bump into him during the breaks where we would usually be drinking our beers and chatting about how bad JYP are playing.

JAMK has lost a teacher whose boots can never be filled, and the world has lost a man with a heart of gold. It brings me comfort to know that his spirit will always be there, and that he is now reunited with his mother and others who love him.

And lastly… yes, it was me who threw the snowball that hit your head at the airport, my bad but it was a good shot in my defence.

-Cam

Pussies – Part 1

Setting: Logistics Gala 2016. Pre-party at Tommi's place. I was completely clueless about what the heck to expect until Tommi reassured me, "go with the flow—they really like you, but now boy, come here!" We went to Tommi's bedroom, where he took out a couple of different bow ties (nickname in Finnish mirri = pussycat) from his wardrobe and asked which one was better. Of course, I picked the bright red one and left him to it. Soon after, I heard: "Juha! Come back! Help! I can't get this on..."

Ever since I acted as Tommi's “pussy”-fastener and collar adjuster. Just like a knight and his squire.

The last time we did this together, both of us were already over 50, just the two of us before the others arrived. Tommi was struggling with his suit pants, which had become surprisingly tight, and asked, "have you gained weight?" To which I giggled, showing my overly tight waistband, and replied, "Not at all, I have a belt!" LOL-ROFL-LMAO…

Pussies – Part 2

Tommi was an ultimate cat person—smart people are. Over the years, we often talked about what was going on with Tommi’s Mölli and mine Iines and what they had been up to. Them being extremely dear to us despite all the troubles. We shared the common agony when one or the other either pissed on the parquet or the shoe rack… It comes with the territory.

Both Mölli and Iines have passed away, and we both mourned them and shed a tear. Kille and Pirskatti took their place.

Tommi, you were unique, no one can take your place. I’m gonna miss you so bad.

Tommi was and remains Dear to me. He changed my life 180 degrees. I am sure that Tommi changed the lives of many in a positive way because he was loved and respected for his behaviour and human attitude.

Tommi and I last met on December 16, 2024. His smile is in front of my eyes almost every day. Since January 5, 2024, when I heard the news of his death, I have been asking him every day: Tommi, why did you leave? And he answers that he did not leave, that he is with us.

Now each of us can only keep his memory alive.

Rest in peace Tommi.

The attached picture was taken in Tupaswilla on April 13, 2022.