It is with heavy hearts and joyful memories that we announce the passing of our dear mother and grandmother, Velta Kurm (nee Pihelgas) on Tuesday, June 2, 2015, just weeks before her 95th birthday.
Velta was born on June 20, 1920 in Haademeeste, Estonia. She married husband Ain there and they lived happily until WW2, when they fled Estonia in September, 1944 to escape the Soviet occupation of the country. They ended up in England, where their daughter Helge was born, until emigrating to Canada in April, 1952. Their son Enn was born in Thunder Bay.
She worked as a cook at the Port Arthur General Hospital for over 25 years. While living in Thunder Bay, Velta took an active part in the life of the local Estonian community. She was skilled at handicrafts such as knitting, embroidery and sewing and many items featuring Estonian designs decorated her home as well as those of her family. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed entertaining her friends and family. Her special passion was baking and she always had treats on hand for any visitors that
dropped by.
Although the early years were a struggle, the reward was two wonderful grandchildren, Erika and Kevin. Erika brought a smile to Grandma's face each and every day as they shared that special tender grandmother/granddaughter bond. Grandma learned to keep up with hockey and soccer events as Kevin grew up and she always put in her request for a big fish whenever he went fishing.
She will be greatly missed by her children Helge and Enn, along with daughter-in-law Mary Jane, as well as by her beloved grandchildren Erika and Kevin. She is also survived by her cousin Helle Sepp in Vancouver as well as her sister Asta and other relatives in Estonia.
Velta was predeceased by her husband Ain in 1988 and by her sister Helju.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Dawson Court for the excellent care given to Velta during her short stay there. Your kindness will not be forgotten.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 5th, 2015 at Hilldale Lutheran Church, 321 Hilldale Road. In lieu of flowers, donations in Velta's memory to the charity of your choice would be much appreciated.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre, 332 North May Street.
