Ritva Tellervo Kankkunen (nee Neuvonen)

Mrs. Ritva Tellervo Kankkunen (nee Neuvonen), age 74 years, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday evening; November 6, 2021 with her husband Osmo and best friends Tauno and Brenda by her side.

Ritva was born on April 30, 1947 in Saarenpitaja, Finland. She immigrated with her family to Port Arthur as a young child. When difficult times hit the family, Ritva and her brother were boarded with several families, as their mother worked as a cook in forestry camps. However; Ritva excelled at school, enjoying history, art, communications, and fun.

After high school, like many of her friends at the time, Ritva married at a young age. The next twenty years of her life were spent raising her two boys, and looking after her home and family. Ritva enjoyed spending her spare time oil painting and reading; especially historical novels.

In middle age, Ritva returned to school to earn an Accounting and Finance Administration Diploma. This led to her satisfying twenty-five year career with the Ministry of Transportation.

Sadly, her last twelve years were burdened with various tough cancers with only short reprieves between them. Ritva displayed incredible courage and fight until the end.

Ritva is survived by her husband of 55 years Osmo; her sons Ken (Lorna) and Kyle (Tanya); granddaughter Cassie; great-granddaughter Taylee; grandson Kaelain; nephew Kevin; and cousins Anja and Arja.

Ritva will be missed by her in-laws Aaro and Lea, nephews Jari (Christie); their sons Stephen and Gregory; as well as best friends Tauno and Brenda.

She was predeceased by her parents Orvo and Toini Neuvonen; brother Markku; and step-father Aimo Hanna.

As per Ritva's wishes, cremation has taken place and services will be held in Hilldale Lutheran Church on Monday, November, 22, 2021 at 11:00am with a luncheon to follow at the church.

Current regulations require everyone in attendance to provide proof of double vaccination with photo ID, and wear a mask.

Arrangements have been entrusted to EVEREST FUNERAL CHAPEL, 299 Waverley Street at Algoma.

Donations in memory of Ritva to your favourite charity would be appreciated.