It is with heavy hearts that the Hirvasoja families announce the passing of Riitta Hannelle Hirvasoja.
Riitta was born in Nivala, Finland and immigrated to Port Arthur in 1956. At a young age she was aware of her talents in creativity, fashion and theatre.
She pursued her dream by completing a degree in Fashion Design at Ryerson eventually teaching at the school and working in Fashion Retail in Toronto. She later went up North to teach Design Knit to the Inuit People.
Riitta continued her journey back to Finland to work at the Helsinki National Ballet and Opera House. In the 90’s she moved back to Thunder Bay to be closer to her family and again found the love for theatre at Magnus. Riitta had a vivid imagination by bringing scripts to real life with her design in art and production.
Riitta worked her last days at Strides. She had an impeccable work ethic and her calmness and grace resonated amongst the people she surrounded. She had travelled to many places; the Colorado Mountains being where she felt at peace with self and nature. Riitta enjoyed reading, and studying quantum physics. She will be sadly missed by family and friends.
Riitta is survived by her mother Anja, brother Henri and many relatives in Canada and Finland.
Many thanks to Dr. Miller, Dr. Migay, nurses and care providers for compassionate their care.
Funeral services will be held Friday, December 4, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Harbourview Funeral Centre, with visitation one hour prior to service.
In lieu of flowers donations to the Cancer Society or Riitta’s memorial to Magnus Theatre are appreciated.
Online condolences may be offered at harbourviewfuneral.ca
