George Elmer Koivu
September 15th 1925 – December 12th 2024
It is with deep love and broken hearts that we announce the passing of George Elmer Koivu on December 12, 2024 at the age of 99. George died peacefully at his family home surrounded by loved ones.
George was born in Connaught, Ontario, the son of William and Wilma Koivu, immigrants from Finland, who also parented brother Jack, an Air Force bombardier who was killed during World War II, and sisters Doris (predeceased) and Gertrude.
Near the end of the war, George enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces. George studied Metallurgical Engineering and graduated from McGill University. It was there that he met Anne Wasylyk, the love of his life for 75 years. After graduation, George returned to his family home in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, where he worked for 16 years at Noranda Mines before pursuing a career as a mine inspector at the Ministry of Natural Resources in Sudbury.
Married to Anne in 1952, they travelled worldwide as a couple and together with their children. George and Anne enjoyed many sporting events starting with their honeymoon at the Helsinki Olympics. They attended such events as the British Empire Games, the Pan American Games, World Curling, World Figure Skating Championships, Track & Field, and even the Rose Bowl and Rio Carnival.
George is well known at his camp in Kanasuta, Quebec for his wood craftsmanship, building many saunas (which he enjoyed regularly), log cabins, as well as cedar and birch furniture. To his family and closest friends, he will be remembered for hand picking rocks and blueberries, his docks and boathouses. Ever the active man, George and his friends loved cross country skiing, hunting, fishing, curling, hockey, figure skating, a passion for dancing, and teaching cribbage to his many offspring.
In Quebec, George was instrumental in bringing Little League Baseball to the province, as well as being an Executive member of the Lions Club. Once the family relocated to Chelmsford, he remained a busy man volunteering in the community. As a Life member at the local branch, he was very active in promoting Legion activities.
He leaves behind his loving wife Anne, his sister Gertrude, his children, Mark, Kristina Castonguay (Richard), Gary, John (Susan), Tamara Ivens (Mark), Cindy (Ian Kennard), Kathy LeBreton (Frank) and Annikki Desmarais (Dan). He leaves his legacy to 19 cherished grandchildren, 14 adoring great grandchildren, and a constellation of relatives, friends, and coworkers.
He will be remembered for the twinkle in his blue eyes, his kind and gentle nature, his hard-working spirit, and his strong commitment to his wife and his family. The family would like to thank the Veteran’s Affairs and the dedicated caregivers for the smiles and care. A celebration of 99 years well spent will be held at the Chelmsford Legion on January 9th, 2025.
Please honour George’s memory by supporting a local sports organization or donating to Chelmsford Legion Branch 553.
www.cooperativefuneralhome.ca