It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Soili Manninen on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020 at Point Grey Hospital. Soili was born in Kokkola, Finland on August 17,1936 and lived her childhood days in Kaustinen Finland, home of the famous international Folk Music Festival.
In 1949, with her mother, she emigrated to Canada and reunited with her father, who had left Finland years earlier to begin a new life for his family. A few years later, her parents had two more sons. While living in Vancouver, Soili met her husband Eino. Not long after, they had two children. A tragic accident at Kelsey Bay on Vancouver Island took the life of her beloved husband in 1996.
She is survived by her daughter Rita and husband Gerry (Gerard) VanRijt together with granddaughter Antonia; her son Paul Manninen; and brothers Kenneth (Ken) and wife Colleen Kahri, and Dennis with wife Vicki Kahri; and her nieces and nephews Christine, Dale and Brian Kahri, and Crystal Kahri.
Soili was fortunate to return to her native Suomi several times over the years. One trip included a trip to USSR where she visited the then-named Leningrad. On another, she met the legendary James Brown and his entourage in the Helsinki airport. Ever the music fan, she approached him and received his latest CD.
Always a devoted mother, she will be remembered for her joyful laughter, kindness and generosity towards others. Her family will always remember her beautiful smile and entertaining stories.
The family would like to thank the excellent care staff at Point Grey. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Mom loved all animals, either on the farm or family pets. Her last pet friend and loyal companion was 'Buddy', and in lieu of flowers, a donation could be made to the SPCA.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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