It is with heavy hearts that the family of Edwin Jorma Harja announce his passing on Thursday September 22nd, 2016 at St Joseph’s Hospital with his loving grandson Christopher by his side.
The perfect Christmas gift, Ed was born on December 25th, 1929 in Timmins, Ontario.
His first job working in the bush camps proved to be successful as this is where he met his future wife Janina. After moving to Port Arthur, Ed started up Bay Radio Cabs with his brother Sam. Forever the entrepreneur, Ed eventually sold that company and opened a well-known business in the city, Ed’s Pawn Shop.
Together with his wife, Ed operated this prosperous business, creating strong ties within the community and collecting many treasures along the way. After the passing of his wife, Ed sold the business and settled into retirement. Aside from acquiring his private pilot’s license, Ed also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golfing.
You always knew when Ed was in the vicinity; his boisterous voice and laugh were as bold and unique as his personality.
Edwin leaves behind his companion Maire; Son Ed Jr. (Gayle); Daughter Sheila; Brothers Sammy (Kyllikki), Lauri (Pirkko), and Olavi (Ellen); Sister-in-law Vuokko; Grandchildren Christopher (Vanessa), Jennifer, and Emma; and Great-Grandsons Mitchel, Maxwell, and Malcolm. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and relatives in Canada, USA and Finland. Ed was predeceased by his wife Janina; Parents Selma Tyni and Eino Koski-Harja; Step-mother Elli Yli-Heikkila; and little brother Henry.
The family would like to express a heartfelt thanks to Peter. Your help over the last few months has been such a blessing and is greatly appreciated.
Funeral services for Edwin Harja will be on Wednesday September 28th, 2016 at 1:00 PM in the chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre – 499 Cumberland Street, presided by Rev. Gordon Holroyd. Viewing will take place from 11:30am. until time of the service. Interment in Riverside Cemetery will follow the reception.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cancer Society would be appreciated.
