Jukka Jarmo Perkiomaki

Jukka Jarmo Perkiomaki, DMD, passed away in his home surrounded by family on Oct. 30 after being diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer months earlier.

Born to Enni and Osmo Perkiomaki, of Oulainen, Finland, in January 1950, his family immigrated to Astoria when he was 11 years old. He quickly adapted to hold his own in a new country, mastering the English language and becoming a standout in athletics and academics.

He played varsity football, basketball and golf for the Astoria High School Fisherman, from which he graduated in 1969.

Thriving in his new community, Jukka went on to complete his undergraduate studies at Oregon State University and Western Oregon University, and earned his doctor of dental medicine degree from the University of Oregon Health Science Center in 1977.

His Portland dental practice grew quickly, and ran successfully for 40-plus years before selling it in 2020 to Forest Park Dental Studio. Jukka’s passion for dentistry, and commitment to his patients, were evident in every aspect of his practice.

He leaves behind not only a significant impact on the dental community, but also a lasting impression of kindness, compassion and professionalism everywhere he went.

Apart from his career, Jukka was a true sportsman, from water skiing to downhill skiing across the West. He enjoyed a lifetime of fishing and razor clamming with friends, was an avid golfer and tennis player, and was a constant and well-loved presence in the Multnomah Athletic Club squash community.

Jukka married Judy in 1990, and they began building their family that same year in southwest Portland. He embraced his role as a proud father, never missing an opportunity to be at his children’s squash and soccer games across the country.

His humor, positivity, and love for his family and friends will be deeply missed, but will always be remembered. He is survived by his wife, Judy; son, Adam (Isabella); daughter, Kaija; and sister, Sirpa Whitman.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in remembrance of Jukka Perkiomaki to one of the following: Astoria High School Scholarships Inc., Friends of Suomi Hall, Finlandia Foundation Jaakko Tuominen Memorial Sports Fund, or the Multnomah Athletic Foundation.

A service will be held at St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 S.W. Park Ave. in Portland, at 11 a.m. on Jan. 4, followed by a celebration of life reception at the Multnomah Athletic Club Reading Room, 1849 S.W. Salmon St. in Portland.