March 15, 1933 - May 8, 2021
Passed away peacefully but unexpectedly at the Sault Area Hospital at the age of 88. Veikko now reunites with his wife, Taimi days before their 62nd wedding anniversary. Father of Tarja Loewen (Hugh Coverley). Brother to late Viljo (Taimi), Erkki (late Pirkko), Eila and Anja (late Eino). Remembered by his nieces and nephews in Finland.
Veikko was a master carpenter/craftsman and a proud 50 plus year member of the Carpenters’ Union. His eye for detail was respected and unparalleled. A man of few words, you never knew what his next project would be until it was already started and/or finished. His apartment at Kotitalo was a museum of his treasures from years of sawdust.
Having grown up in Finland by a lake, dad was always happiest at camp. As a kid, I remember mom and I picking up dad on a Friday night from the plant with groceries (and beer) and off to camp rain or shine! His happy place to escape COVID last summer was at Maki Lake growing his vegetables and feeding his hummingbirds. At age 87, he spent his last summer living his life on his own terms. Yes, SISU applies.
Mom and dad had many great friends within and outside of the Finnish community in the Sault and area. There were many visits, card games, dances and parties with lifelong friends over the last 58 years since their arrival in Canada in 1963 – many of those dear friends are still in the Sault area and I hold them close. We will all get together at some point and raise a toast to those precious memories.
Dad was independent until just recently. From the bottom of my heart - Thank you to the OFRA family for looking after dad over the years – in particular the team at Kotitalo, housekeeping and dietary for their care and concern. It has been a difficult year for everyone but I truly admire all of the Ontario Finnish Resthome staff for continuing to do their utmost best to look after our loved ones under difficult circumstances. True angels. Thank you also to the doctors and nurses at SAH 3C and 3B and Bayshore for doing their best to keep dad comfortable over the last two weeks.
A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Ontario Finnish Resthome Foundation (New MKK Campaign) would be greatly appreciated by the family (by cheque or online at ontariofinnishresthome.ca). Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E. - 705-759-2522). Please visit the Arthur Funeral Home Obituaries Website to leave a message of condolence as a keepsake for the family.
Äiti : No niin, missäs sinä olet viipynyt?
Isä : Tein töitä. Työt on vihdoin tehty.....nyt saamme levätä rauhassa.
Ja näin isä sai lopulta viimeisen sanan.