Liisa Kraft went to heaven on April 4, 2017 from her home at Lakehead Manor.
She was born into the Kraft family on June 22, 1961 and nurtured by a loving foster family until she began her independent life, enabled and supported by Community Living and affiliated service groups.
She attended St. Andrew’s Church and sang in the choir. Her work life included several city employers, her favourite, the Thunder Bay Police Department. Her friendships grew with her activities; bowling, travelling, dancing and especially, through the Special Olympics. She brought home several medals in swimming from Kingston.
Liisa was quick to smile with an infectious laugh that brought joy to her family and friends. Her thoughtful Christmas cards and gifts will never be forgotten. Whether she was swimming at the Special Olympics or making a heartfelt speech before a large crowd at her niece’s wedding, Liisa embodied Finnish “sisu” in all that she did.
Liisa is survived by her dear friend Roberta Haywood and special sister Ruthie Ogden and family. Her Kraft family includes sisters Eeva, Pirkko Hayes (Red), Anna Myyrylainen (Joel), Marja Pehkonen (Raimo), brothers Jouni (Deborah), Veli, nieces, nephews and their families, including relatives in Finland. She was predeceased by parents Paavo and Eevi, her foster mother Lillian Johnston and her great niece Sarah Hope Myyrylainen.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 10, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, officiated by Rev. Joyce Yanishewski, with reception at Jenkens Funeral Home. Interment follows at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
