Reta May Lukkarila passed away peacefully with family by her side on February 24, 2024 at Health Sciences North one week short of her 93rd birthday.
Predeceased by her husband Mauri (2018). She leaves behind sons David and Tim (Jeanne), granddaughters Karen, Kimberly (Robert), Julie (deceased), Jeffrey, Taylor (Jeff), great-grandchildren, Isabelle and Alyssa and her furry friend Harmony. She is the dear sister of Joan, and Bobby (Margaret) and sister-in-law to Carol (Reijo). Sadly missed by her nieces and nephews.
Reta was an elementary school teacher that made sure her students learned! She always said that one year in life of a student gave her so much satisfaction that she had an impact on that person. If you ask anyone who is taught by her, she remembered them, and they remembered her. When she retired from teaching, she and her husband built and retired to their dream home on Long Lake and settled into the life of retirement. This included, golf, hosting family and friends at many barbeques at the lake, and world travel.
Reta, who is also known as nanny to all, was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, with a spirited attitude and infectious zest for life. Her sarcastic humour and expressions made you laugh, but her door was always open to anyone, and she offered an ear and great advice when needed. Everyone knows she enjoyed tease, craft shows, shopping (in particular at the dollar store), hobbies of all kinds, and going to the casino and buying scratch cards. She loved planning a day of doing anything with friends and family, and then ending it with a great meal talking about the day.
Thank you to all the staff at St. Joseph’s Villa for all your great care and thank you to the doctors as well and the staff at HSN during her final journey. As per her wishes, there will be no service with a family interment will be held at a later date. Donations in her memory to be made to the charity of your choice. Arrangements and trusted to the Lougheed Funeral Homes.