It is with great sadness that the family of Lyyli Elina Kosonen announces her peaceful passing at the TBRHSC on the morning of April 1, 2022 after a brief battle with cancer.
Lyyli was born and enjoyed her early childhood in Uukuniemi, Finland. After being displaced during WWII, her family settled in Kesälahti, Finland where she spent her teen years and early adulthood. Lyyli met Heikki in 1956 and after a short, long distance letter writing courtship (Dad was in Canada) they were married in August 1957. Two weeks later they immigrated to Canada and Mom always said she was still on her honeymoon trip.
Lyyli was a very independent woman. She was proud of the fact that she got her driver’s licence at age 52 and was still on the road last fall before the snow came. Mom was always busy doing something. She loved to pick blueberries, garden, knit, read, fish and cheer on Finnish Formula 1 drivers or hockey players but she especially loved to sauna and swim at camp. She took a keen interest in politics and rarely missed watching Jeopardy despite saying that she didn’t speak English. She also loved to travel near and far. Lyyli made it back to Finland fourteen times to visit family and friends. She was thrilled to take her grandchildren there to discover their roots. Hawaii was also a favourite destination.
Lyyli is survived by her children Arto Kosonen (Leanne) and Arja Hiiback (Timo); wonderful grandchildren Kyle Kosonen, Krista Worth (Jeff), Craig Kosonen (Nicole), Katrina Hiiback (Evan) and Alex Hiiback (Alexia); extra special great grandchildren Seija and Elias Worth, Aria and Angela Kosonen, Tessa and Isla Hiiback; brother Eero Leminen (Eila) and sister Liisa Kiiski; aunt Lisa Roine; cousin Margit Shaver (Don) and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and close friends in Canada and Finland. She was predeceased by her husband Heikki (2000), parents Petter and Tyyne Leminen, brother Lauri Leminen (Maija) and brother-in-law Reino Kiiski.
The family would like to thank Dr. Probizanski for years of excellent care, Dr. Miller for his guidance, comfort and compassion, the nurses from St. Elizabeth’s, especially Sydney and Erin, and the wonderful staff and nurses at TBRHSC on 3B who made Mom’s last days comfortable and peaceful.
Cremation has taken place and a private celebration of Lyyli’s life will be held at a later date when the family can come together in Thunder Bay. Should friends so choose, donations may be made to Hilldale Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.
