ESKO KALERVO REPO

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ESKO KALERVO REPO It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the passing of Esko Kalervo Repo, on Sunday, September 10, 2000. Esko was born on April 8, 1927, in Uukuniemi, Finland. On September 27, 1930, he moved to the city of Viipuri with his parents Jalmari and Hilja and after living in Viipuri for many years, the ravages of war forced the Repos to leave their home and move back to Uukuniemi. Esko proudly served in the Finnish Army as a corporal and used his unique talents to make artificial arms and limbs for the Red Cross. In 1951, after reading about Canada in the newspapers, his adventurous spirit took him to Winnipeg, where he worked in the auto body trade for many years. A year after his arrival he married Anna Astrom and on December 21, 1956, he declared Canadian citizenship. Esko cherished nature and spent many happy years hunting, fishing and enjoying the wilderness of the Pointe du Bois area. He loved watching hockey and he was a big Formula 1 fan. Many will remember Esko dressing up as Santa Claus and visiting various friends homes on Christmas Eve. His parents and only brother, Arvo in Finland, predeceased Esko. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter June and husband Scott Wiebe; his son Wayne Repo, Debbie Tessier and granddaughter Carly. He will be fondly remembered for his gentle nature, sense of humour and "SISU." The family would like to extend their utmost appreciation to Faye Burly at the Oakville Seniors Centre and the wonderful caregivers at Central Park Lodge, 440 Edmonton St.; a special thanks to the fine staff on the 11th floor. Your kindness, professionalism and warmth brought sunshine to Dads last months. Heartfelt thanks to close family friend Ira Suominen for her emotional support during Eskos lengthy illness, the numerous hospital visits, phone calls and wonderful baking. You were very special to Dad and thank you for always being there. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service officiated by Pastor Tom Lurvey will be held on Thursday, September 14, at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Ave. (entrance on Aubrey Street). In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made in memory of Esko to the charity of your choice. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 13, 2000