Shirley Ann Ruuskanen

Peacefully passed away on June 1st, 2023. Shirley Ann, born December 6th, 1933, in Copper Cliff, Ontario, to Hilma and Pekka Akkanen. Sister to Ingeborg, John and Vic. Loving wife to Sakari Ruuskanen. Proud mother to David (Barbara), Tim (Shirley), Sheila (Pat). Loving Grandma to Robbie (Lindsay), Joanna (Eric), Brendan, Ryan, Ayla and Maya. Great-Grandmother to Sophie.

Shirley started her working life in Copper Cliff, after attending secretarial college. She enjoyed a long and successful career at Inco (now Vale), eventually retiring from the Toronto Office, as Benefits Administrator, after 40+ years.

As a young girl Shirley was enamored with dance classes and piano lessons, and as a young woman she belonged to the Finnish Club, at Sampo Hall in Sudbury, where she spent time at social events and this is where she met, and eventually married, Sakari. From the time of their marriage in 1958 their lives revolved around the Finnish community and their local Lutheran church, where Shirley played organ on a regular basis. After moving the family to Toronto in 1971 she became an active member of Agricola Finnish Lutheran church, where she often volunteered as substitute organist.

Shirley and Sakari raised their children in Willowdale, where she continued after his death in 1988, living many years alone while balancing a career, and a plethora of friends, each group affectionately named: “the train ladies” or “mall coffee friends” (who she walked with every day after retirement), or “the once a month lunch ladies.” She had many lovely friends, with whom she traveled, attended musicals and symphonies. She was a much loved friend to many and enjoyed long walks with neighborhood friends, never passing up an opportunity to clock miles on her pedometer.

An avid crossword fan, she was faithful to the Toronto Star daily puzzle, often checking in with other friends to corroborate her answers. Shirley was never without her infamous pocket calendar, writing copious notes in the little tiny squares. An extremely organized individual, she just couldn’t be matched on her ability to remember important dates, like birthdays and anniversaries, signing every card to her grandkids with her infamous “Grandma Loves You.” A truly loving grandmother, she never forgot to bring Twizzlers red licorice to the cottage for family movie nights, a signature Shirley contribution. In later years, her love of Purdy’s Chocolates and bags of Werther’s caramel candies was unparalleled. We hope there are more treats waiting for her in Heaven.

“We love you more - and a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck.”

The family wishes to thank the staff at Amica, Bayview Gardens, for their care. Words will never be enough to let you know how much your kindness meant to all of us, especially Shirley, in these past few years.

A private family interment will take place on Monday, June 12th. In lieu of flowers, if desired, please make donations to: Agricola Lutheran Church, Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, or to a charity of your choice.