With heavy hearts and great sadness we announce the passing of Lena.
After a brief struggle with inoperable cancer Lena passed away peacefully with her daughter by her side.
Predeceased by her mother Aliina and father Konstantin, she will be lovingly remember
by her children, Shaun and Seija, and grandchildren, Ella and Tyler.
She leaves behind her sisters Leila, Maija, Riitta and brother Antti.
Lena was born in Karvia, Finland and came to Canada in 1957 with her family settling in Kingston, Ontario. The family moved to Port Arthur and St. Catherines, Ontario, where she graduated from high school. Lena was accepted by the Ontario College of Art, and lived for the duration in Toronto. Feeling the lure of adventure and possibility she and a friend made their way to the West Coast. Here she met her future husband and settled in Surrey, B.C. While raising a family, Lena studied Sociology and Anthropology at U.B.C.
Finding the attractions of Vancouver Island irresistible, the family moved to Nanaimo, where Lena joined the staff of the 'Nanaimo Association for Community Living'. She loved being a care giver and made many lasting friendship there. As well as assisting in the Special Education program at Malaspina University, Lena found time to do volunteer work within the community.
Lena enjoyed traveling with friends and family but her greatest passion in life were her grandchildren. Her love of Birthdays and Christmas were celebrated with joy, beautiful decorations and her wonderful cooking. Her house was a home to all her friends and her garden a sanctuary of beauty. Lena will lovingly be remembered for her kindness and warmth and as a devoted Grandmother.
Special thank you to her family physician Dr. Grimes and all the nurses and staff of the Nanaimo Regional Hospital Cancer Clinic and the staff and volunteers of Nanaimo Regional Hospital Palliative Care Unit.
All were most kind and helpful during a difficult time.
Flowers are gratefully declined. Should you wish please feel free to donate to any cancer research. No service by request.
Lena's Celebration of Life will be held January 6th, 2018 at 3:00 p.m., 1583 Sherwood Drive, Nanaimo.