LAAKSO, Vieno

LAAKSO, Vieno Ilmari - May 5, 1923 – February 8, 2012. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, grandfather and great grandfather at Health Sciences North on Wednesday, February 8th, 2012. Ilmari (Elmer) was born on May 5th, 1923 in Tohalampi, Finland to Juho and Aina Laakso (both predeceased). He was the third eldest in a family of ten boys (Veikko, Niilo, Viljo, Vaino, Pentti, Matti, Erkki, Alpo and Heimo) and one girl (Raili). Ilmari immigrated to Canada in November 1951. He settled in the Sudbury area close to the lakes and forests that reminded him of his native Finland. He began to work for Inco for many years, finally retiring in 1984. On March 15th, 1958, Ilmari married Viivi Sutelainen. They became parents to daughter Aija and son Hannu. Ilmari was known for his strong work ethic. He spent countless summers building houses and cottages throughout the north. He also had a passion for hunting and fishing and was quick to share his catch, especially his wonderful smoked fish, with family and friends. Elmer was a gregarious person and always enjoyed getting together with his friends, especially for a Saturday night sauna. However, his pride and joy were his grandsons, Jonathan Laakso, Matthew Laakso and Evan Jarvi and great grandson Edan. He cherished every moment that he spent with them, especially the times they spent together at the cottage at Onaping Lake. Left to remember him are his daughter Aija Jarvi (husband Jack) of Saskatoon, son Hannu Laakso of Dowling grandsons Jonathan Laakso (Kim) of Bolsover, Matthew Laakso (Jennifer) of Chelmsford, Evan Jarvi of Saskatoon, great grandson Edan Laakso, brother Vaino of Dowling and many nieces and nephews in Canada and Finland. Ilmari left this world with the same sisu and fight that defined his life. His was a presence that will remain with us forever. “Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rage at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light“. Funeral Service in the LOUGHEED FUNERAL HOME, 252 Regent St., at Hazel St. Sunday, February 12th, 2012 at 1 p.m. Interment in the Maplecrest Cemetery, Dowling. Donations to the St. Matthew's Church would be appreciated. (Friends may call 7-9 p.m. Saturday or after 12noon Sunday). To light a memorial candle, flowers, donations or messages of condolences available on-line at www.lougheed.org