REIMA SAARINEN

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

REIMA SAARINEN It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Reima (Raymond) Saarinen of Ladner, BC on January 24, 2008. Ray was born in Turku, Finland in 1925, immigrated to Canada at three years old and spoke both Finnish and Swedish. Dad spent most of his life in Winnipeg before taking early retirement in 1980 and moving to British Columbia. True to his Finnish heritage, Ray was the first person in Manitoba to build a sauna in his Winnipeg home and was the inaugural president of the Scandinavian Centre. Ray served in the Royal Canadian Navy for 2 years before pursuing his consummate interest, aviation. He later became a certified pilot and aircraft technician followed by a career with Air Canada for 29 years. Raymond was predeceased by his loving wife Thelma of 56 years. Survived by his daughter, Diane Coulter (Jim) of Winnipeg, son Bruce (Vicki) of Kelowna, grandson Elijah residing in Australia and daughter Liisa of Victoria. A sincere thank you to Dr. Philip Lee of UBC's Alzheimer's clinic, Dr. Kason, and all the wonderful and caring staff at Westshore Laylum. As per his wishes, cremation has taken place and no service is planned. Dad wishes to be remembered as the last time you saw him. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Alzheimer's Society or your favorite charity. Delta Funeral Home (604) 946-6040

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 02, 2008