H. Eugene Karjala, age 81, of Lilydale, Minn., passed away on Nov. 18, 2014 in Clare Bridge of Eagan, Minn. As a career educator, he directed bands and choirs in Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, and Germany and was on the faculty at Ball State University School of Music for 24 years. Gene had a love for his Finnish heritage and in retirement was active in the Finnish American community, serving on both the FACA and Salolampi boards. In 2001 he spent the year at the University of Helsinki and in 2007 was named one of the University of Minnesota CLA’s Alumni of Notable Achievement. Eugene was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Beth; aunt, Katherine Karjala; and cousins throughout the country. Memorials to Salolampi Scholarship Fund, Salolampi Foundation, Minneapolis.