Taina Tuulikki Elonen
October 13, 1924 – December 8, 2024
It is with great sadness that the family of Taina Tuulikki Elonen announces the peaceful passing of their beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother on Sunday, December 8, 2024.
Taina was born on October 13, 1924, in Kokkola, Finland, the youngest of 13 children. She was the only one of her siblings to be born in a hospital, while the others were born in the sauna. She grew up on a farm 20 km from Kokkola, in the small town of Marikainen, and lived through the challenges of World War II. She met her first husband, Alpo Leskela, and they immigrated to Canada in 1957, settling in Port Arthur. They welcomed their daughter, Tuula, in 1960. Sadly, Alpo passed away unexpectedly in 1967.
Taina later met Arto Elonen, and they married in 1974. She worked for 25 years as an Air Canada reservation agent after learning English and attending school. Taina and Arto celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year and enjoyed building two homes together, traveling extensively, and being active members of the Finnish community. Taina was also a devout member of Hilldale Lutheran Church, where she sang in the choir for many years.
She is survived by her husband, Arto; daughter, Tuula Melo (Bryan); stepchildren Tiina Elonen (Finland) and Peter; grandchildren Lisa Turega (Joel), Shane Kay (Laura); step-grandchildren Heidi Tiainen (Kayla) and Markko Tiainen (Finland); great-grandchildren Mady, Kenzie, Chloe, and Noah; her one surviving sibling, Jorma Sinko (Finland); and numerous nieces and nephews. She will be dearly missed.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the medical staff of Thunder Bay Regional 2C and St. Joseph’s Hospice 4 North for their care and compassion.
Cremation has taken place as per Taina’s wishes. A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hilldale Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be shared at everestofthunderbay.com.
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Everest of Thunder Bay.
