Ilona Ellen Mitchell, a lifelong resident of Pembroke, passed away surrounded by the love of her family.
Born in Brockton on January 29, 1939, she was the daughter of the late Ellen and Arvo Blom. A graduate of Silver Lake Regional High School, where her sense of humor earned her the title of class clown.Ilona dedicated 45 years of her life to nursing, spending the majority of her career at Brockton Hospital. Caring for others came naturally to her, both in her work and in her life.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Henry. She is survived by her loyal brother, Richard Blom and her three sons, Timothy; Eric and his wife, Becky; and Matthew and his wife, Deirdre; as well as her two bonus sons, Scott Braley and the late Mark Peterson. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Chelsey, Ellyn, Autumn, Madison, Robert, Hannah, Jordyn, Jack, and Caroline, and cherished her eight great grandchildren.
Ilona lived her life with a deep sense of sisu, a Finnish expression for raw grit and determination, never letting adversity dim her spirit. She loved to laugh and had a true sense of adventure. She loved Elvis, traveling, the mountains and deeply valued her friendships, and making memories with the people she loved. She leaves behind a life well lived and a family who will miss her beyond measure.
Visiting hours will be in the Leighton-MacKinnon Funeral Home 4 West Washington St. (Corner of Rte. 58) Hanson on Wednesday August 19, 2026 4-6:30 PM with a Funeral Service in the Funeral Home at 6:30 PM. Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend.
In lieu of flowers please donate to Buddy and Friends Animal Rescue in Pembroke
https://buddyandfriendsma.org
