IRJA (IRENE) SUOMINEN

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IRJA (IRENE) SUOMINEN In her 83rd year, with the comfort and assurance of eternal life, our dear friend, Irja Suominen passed away peacefully, on Thursday, December 5, 2002 at the Riverview Health Centre following a courageous battle with cancer. Irjas memory will be cherished by her only living sibling, Bertta Helvila in Finland, as well as a number of nieces and nephews. She will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by her extensive "Canadian family", many of whom had adopted her as "mother", "aunt", "sister", best friend" and confidant during her past 51 years in Canada. She was predeceased by her parents, five siblings and her beloved husband Viljo (2001), whose tender care and comfort was her top priority for 60 years. Irja was a true friend and companion, especially of those who were sick, lonely or hungry. She gave of herself unconditionally and unassumingly - even while ill herself. Irja was born on October 5, 1919 in Kotka, Finland. She married her "dream" sailor, Viljo Suominen in 1941 and in 1951 this brave couple immigrated to Canada where they were to make a major contribution to the Canadian multi-cultural mosaic. As a new Canadian Irja found work as a nurses aide in Beausejour and after a move to Winnipeg she began her employment with Rice Sportswear, moving up the ladder from sewing machine operator to a very respected Forelady until her retirement. Despite the many challenges brought on by ill health, both Irja and Viljo participated in life fully! Their greatest source of pride and pleasure was the cottage they built at Eleanor Lake and the moments shared there with good friends. Travel took them to Europe, the Caribbean and the United States. The preservation of their Finnish heritage through extensive volunteer involvement in ensuring the success of the Scandinavian Centre brought both Irja and Viljo honours when they were presented the award as Volunteers of the Year. A 17 year member of the Scandinavian Choir, a member of the Finnish Canadian club, Scandinavian Centre Ladies Auxiliary, an annual contributor of time, talent and her famous "pulla" (Finnish coffee bread), to every fundraiser and bake sale, Folklorama, and a recent financial contribution to establish the Finnish library at the Scandinavian Centre attest to a genuine effort to preserve the Finnish culture and customs for generations to come. Irjas strong faith in God sustained her through many difficult times and gave her the "sisu" or Finnish tenacity which amazed many of her care givers. On her behalf, we thank the many friends and family and especially Pastor Michael Kurtz for their prayers and support during this final phase on this earth. A special thanks also to the amazing care givers at the Riverview Health Centre as well as the Victoria Hospital. A funeral service to celebrate Irjas life will be held at First Lutheran Church, 580 Victor St., (Victor at Sargent) at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, December 9 followed by coffee and fellowship at the Parish Hall and the interment of the ashes at St. Vital Cemetery officiated by Pastor Michael Kurtz. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Irjas memory to the Canadian Cancer Society, 193 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 2B7, or a charity of your choice. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 08, 2002