Poutala, Firlock Paints

Carlo lived on SW 78th in Garden Home and manufactured Firlock Paints in his garage. This paint was used on many homes in Garden Home.  The following was his obituary published in the Finnish Brotherhood newsletter.  Reprinted by permission from daughter Karen Poutala Garner and son Arnie Poutala.  E.S.

September 24, 1914 –October 8, 2007

He made it to age 93!! That was his goal.  Carlo Poutala passed away at his son Arnie’s home Oct 8th, 2007. Carlo was born in 1914 to George and Anna Poutala.

When he was 25 he married a school teacher, Iris Hankins and he enrolled at Oregon State College. He graduated in 1943 with a degree in chemical engineering.  A daughter, Karen, was born in 1940 and a son, Arnold, in 1944. Carlo established Firlock Paint Company in the garage behind his home until he retired in 1979.

During those years Carlo acquired the nickname “Johnny Appleseed” because he would graft as many as 20 different apple varieties to one apple tree stock to have a variety of fruit. He also raised honeybees in the backyard and the kids at Halloween would receive a jar of honey.

Carlo’s love of Finnish culture caused him to join the West Coast Finnish American Historical Society where he served as president in 1966. He, along with Iris and many members, led the dismantling, moving and rebuilding of the historic Erik Lindgren pioneer home, which still resides at Cullaby Lake near Seaside.  Iris wove authentic rugs on her loom and helped to furnish the cabin in traditional Finnish style. Iris passed away in 1986.

Carlo loved to dance and it was at a dance that he met Elvie White, and they were married in 1991. Elvie passed away in 1999.

Carlo was also an active member of the Portland Finnish Lodge # 23 until he was physically not able to attend.

Left to mourn his passing are his daughter Karen Garner and her children, Kendall and Curtis. Also son Arnold and his wife Sandi along with their two daughters and sons-in-law, Deedra and Jerry Thompson and Heidi and Hugh Taylor. And last but not least, Emilia Thompson (age 6) who lovingly called her great grandpa “Isä”.

Firlock Paints Shed