AINI ANNIKKI ZELANKO (SAUVULA) -

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AINI ANNIKKI ZELANKO (nee SAUVULA) 1926 - 2006 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Aini Zelanko at Selkirk General Hospital on October 9, 2006 surrounded by her husband and children. The circle of life is complete for mom, who had a spirit which never diminished although her body eventually failed. Aini will be greatly missed by her husband of 59 years, Johnny; her children Hazel (Doug) Lee, Leonard, Cathie (Wally) Bailey and Sandra (Chris) Atkins; along with five grandchildren, Jonathon, Amy, Richard, Daniel and Sarah and two great-grandchildren, Ashton and Jadyn. Numerous cousins in Finland and nieces and nephews in Manitoba and Thunder Bay. Aini was born in Kalajoki, Finland on October 7, 1926 and came to Canada when she was only one year old. Aini was very proud when she became a Canadian Citizen on January 12, 1948. Aini met Johnny (John) while working in a bush camp in 1946. John immediately fell in love with this blonde, very attractive hard working young woman. They were married in 1947 and moved to Winnipeg. For many years she worked as a house cleaner to help make ends meet and to ensure her four children were never in need of any necessities because her family always came first. After many years of travelling from Winnipeg to the farm each weekend, Aini and John moved to the farm in 1973. In 1987 she and John travelled back to her birth place in Finland for a very memorable and well deserved vacation. While in Finland Aini got to see the 100 year old wicker carriage that her mother once used for her. On the farm, she loved her garden and flowers and this summer Aini and John took in two homeless cedar waxwing baby birds. The two birds which required feeding every few hours thrived under Mom and Dad's loving care. During this last summer of mom's life and with her ailing health these birds provided much entertainment and comfort to her. John and his children would like to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Fuchs and the numerous nurses at the Selkirk General Hospital. Cremation has taken place and at her request there will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Christ Church, 227 McLean Ave. Selkirk, Manitoba. Mom, we all love you very much and we will miss you! You have worked so hard all your life and it is now time for you to finally rest. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 12, 2006