Jari Olkkonen, Captain (civ engrs)
6.3.1961 Riihimäki - 2.8.2008 Riihimäki.
A true member of the Finnish shooting society has passed away. Jari Olkkonen's life met its end
while he was having his normal physical exercise in Riihimäki 2.8.2008.
The seizure was rapid and furious and, although paramedic help was with him quickly, sadly nothing could be done.
Jari was known to be a person with ultimately high and very ethical goals. He put enormous efforts to gain a deep knowledge
about his duties in life and free time hobbies. There was never any doubt with regard to his abilities in any task
he decided to accomplish. This was a major benefit for the Finnish Military Shooting Team,
as was Jari's wide competence in many material acquisitions, which was of great help
to the military team whilst he was serving at Army Material Command.
One of Jari's most loved hobbies was shooting. It was very early in his youth that he recognised that
Olympic pistol shooting to be the discipline he wanted to master. Jari was introduced to this mentally disciplined
sport by his father who also used to practice shooting at their home range in Riihimäki.
The first big event Jari participated in was the international match between Finland and Germany in 1980.
In the individual Olympic pistol competition he gained the bronze medal and achieved a team gold medal as well.
Since that time a lot of trust was placed on him as a talented competitor for the European and World Championships
although his ultimate goal was to be a participant in the Olympic Games. Although this wish never came true for him,
Jari was nevertheless eagerly waiting to see his friends' great performances at Beijing Olympic Games this summer.
Sadly, fate disagreed with this wish too.
Jari was escorted to his last rest with all military dignity in the churchyard of Riihimäki 16.8.2008.
A deep sense of loss is felt among his relatives and closest friends.