Mentor Resident Erika Puussaar Inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame

Erika Puussaar, an 82-year-old resident of Mentor, has been inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame for her contributions to education, church, and support for Estonia and the Baltic region. Her journey began over 70 years ago when her family escaped their native Estonia to avoid Russian occupation and made it to the United States.

Puussaar vividly remembers the moment when she first saw the Statue of Liberty, symbolizing their arrival in America and the realization of a dream. Since then, she has dedicated her life to learning English, pursuing education, and giving back to her community.

Having obtained a guarantee of support from an American sponsor, Puussaar’s family settled in Detroit and later in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She graduated from Pioneer High School and Northern Michigan University before coming to Northeast Ohio to earn a master’s degree from Cleveland State University.

Puussaar spent 30 years as an elementary teacher in Wickliffe, where she was named “Teacher of the Year” in 1988. She is an active member of Faith Lutheran Church in Mentor and serves on the school board at Our Shepherd Lutheran School in Painesville.

In addition to her teaching career, Puussaar has been involved in various cultural and community organizations, including serving as president of the Estonian Cultural Garden and supporting events like Estonian Victory Day and Jaanipaeva. She has also received the Freedom Award from the American Nationalities Movement for her advocacy and representation of diverse ethnic groups.

Reflecting on her induction into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame, Puussaar expressed gratitude for the opportunities America has provided and emphasized the importance of education and service to others. She continues to be actively involved in her community, demonstrating that retirement is just another chapter in a life full of purpose and dedication.