George Elmer Koivu
September 15, 1925 – December 12, 2024
It is with deep love and broken hearts that we announce the passing of George Elmer Koivu on December 12, 2024, at the age of 99. George died peacefully at his family home surrounded by loved ones.
George was born in Connaught, Ontario, the son of William and Wilma Koivu, immigrants from Finland, who also parented brother Jack, an Air Force bombardier who was killed during World War II, and sisters Doris (predeceased) and Gertrude.
Near the end of the war, George enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces. He studied Metallurgical Engineering and graduated from McGill University, where he met Anne Wasylyk, the love of his life for 75 years. After graduation, George returned to his family home in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, where he worked for 16 years at Noranda Mines before pursuing a career as a mine inspector at the Ministry of Natural Resources in Sudbury.
George and Anne married in 1952 and traveled worldwide as a couple and with their children. They enjoyed attending many sporting events, starting with their honeymoon at the Helsinki Olympics, and participated in events such as the British Empire Games, Pan American Games, World Curling, World Figure Skating Championships, and the Rio Carnival, among others.
In Quebec, George was instrumental in bringing Little League Baseball to the province and was an executive member of the Lions Club. Once relocated to Chelmsford, he remained actively involved in his community, including volunteering with the local Legion branch and supporting sports initiatives.
He leaves behind his loving wife Anne, his sister Gertrude, his children Mark, Kristina Castonguay (Richard), Gary, John (Susan), Tamara Ivens (Mark), Cindy (Ian Kennard), Kathy LeBreton (Frank), and Annikki Desmarais (Dan). He also leaves a legacy to 19 cherished grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and countless relatives, friends, and coworkers.
A celebration of George's remarkable 99 years will be held at the Chelmsford Legion on January 9, 2025. Please honor George’s memory by supporting a local sports organization or donating to Chelmsford Legion Branch 553.
Online condolences and donations may be made at www.cooperativefuneralhome.ca.
