SYLVI MARIA NIEMI

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SYLVI MARIA NIEMI (Wauhkonen) Sylvia Maria Niemi passed away peacefully on March 21, 2007, with family by her side. She was born Sylvi Vauhkonen in Rovaniemi, Finland, on March 27, 1912, to Herman Vauhkonen and Anna Hagberg. She was the third eldest of nine children. She immigrated to Canada with her family in 1914 and eventually settled in Meadow Portage, MB, where she met and married Reino Niemi. They raised two children, Margaret and Carlo, on their farm in Meadow Portage and Lundar. After Reino's passing in 1964, Sylvia moved to Winnipeg and later to Selkirk, where she lived for 31 years. Grandma Niemi, as she was known to many, was very gifted with her hands. She always kept very busy sewing, crocheting, knitting and quilting beautiful items, often as gifts for her family. Bowling became another of her talents, winning many trophies as a member of the Senior's league. She loved caring for her plants, puttering in her garden and growing beautiful flowers in and around her home. Grandma baked delicious breads and prepared special Finnish dishes throughout her life. Sylvia leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Margaret; her son Carl; her sisters, Elsa, Martha and Tyyne; as well as seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, a great-great grandson, many nieces and nephews and her good friend Tina. The family wishes to thank the staff and volunteers at the Betel Home, Selkirk, for their care, especially Carol for her concern and friendship. According to Sylvia's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held. Interment will follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Canadian Diabetes Association in her memory. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 24, 2007