Kari Reinikka

Kari was born in Sievi, Finland on December 17, 1945 and immigrated to GorhamTownship with his family as a boy.  In 1971, he married Karen Hamilton with whom he shared 39 happy years filled with laughter, fun, and projects at their self-designed and built camps, first at DogLake, then at Surprise.

Kari led a full life, active in his church and community.  In addition to having been an elder and member of the Board of Managers at both First and Calvin Presbyterian churches, he served as a long-time member of the Board of Directors for Avenue II and Thunder Bay Community Housing.

Kari lived life to its fullest. His interests included hunting, music, carpentry, and being in the outdoors surrounded by life-long friends and family.  A man of great generosity and skill, Kari was known for his willingness to lend a hand, to join others in work and song, as well as for his warmth and humour.

Kari is survived by his wife Karen; son Neil (Paula); daughters Kirsti and Sara (Dave Scott); and first grandson, Andrew Kari Scott; twin brother Harri; sister Irma Ravaska (Lasse), and loving relatives in both Canada and Finland.  He was predeceased by his parents, Urho and Ellen Reinikka.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Meta Evans from Bayshore Home Health, Dr. Kevin Miller, and the staff of 1A at TBRHSC for their ongoing care and support during Kari’s long battle with cancer.

Following cremation, funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, April 22, 2010 at Calvin Presbyterian Church with Ken Haggerty presiding.  Services will be completed in the church with a reception to follow at the Prince Arthur Waterfront, Dawson Room.  As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made in Kari’s memory to Special Olympics Ontario-Adopt an Athlete; RFDA/food bank of choice; or Shelter House.  Arrangements in care of the Sargent & Son Funeral Directors, 21 N. Court Street.  On-line condolences may be made at www.sargentandson.com.