July 25, 1949 – January 24, 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Eric Wayne Haapala, aged 75, at ARCH Hospice in Sault Ste. Marie, surrounded by his family.
Born in South Porcupine, Ontario, Eric was predeceased by his parents, Matti and Helmi Haapala, his brother, Kaarle Haapala, and his infant son, Darryl Haapala.
Eric is lovingly remembered by his wife, Jeannine (nee Trudeau), his children, Suzanne Haapala (Kelin Nott), Michelle Haapala (Jeannie Horton), and Dr. Eric Haapala (Corinne Wilkerson), and his cherished grandchildren, Sebastien, Olive, and Jude Haapala, and Elliott and Rya Nott. He is also survived by his sister, Elaine Bridson, his brother-in-law/sister-in-law Rene and Heather Trudeau, and a special nephew, Ron Haapala, who he considered like a son. He will be fondly remembered by his many other nieces and nephews and relatives, including his beloved family in Finland, on whom he made a great impression during his travels there.
A positive, smiling, and fun-loving soul, Eric was adored by all who knew him. He brought joy to every room and was always ready with a kind word, a laugh, or terrible joke. Whether hiking, snowshoeing, fishing, hunting, or boating, Eric was happiest outdoors, embracing nature in all its forms. His love of travel took him to many places, but he never forgot his roots in South Porcupine, where his family ran the public sauna, a tradition Eric carried with pride and passed down to his children and grandchildren.
Eric’s work as an electrician at Algoma Steel was marked by his dedication and skill, but it was his warmth and generosity that truly defined him. He touched the hearts of everyone around him, whether family, friends, or strangers.
A cremation has already taken place.
A Celebration of Eric’s Life will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at O’Sullivan Funeral Home (Upstairs). In honour of his colourful spirit, the family would welcome the sharing of fond stories and memories.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff at the Sault Area Hospital Oncology Program, and ARCH Hospice, whose compassionate care made the last three weeks of Eric’s life a time of comfort, peace, and meaningful memories. Thank you also to Dr. Booth, Dr. Rassouli, Dr. Gonzalez Moreno, and home care nurse Michelle for their kind and gentle care. A big thank you to the kind neighbours in Fort Creek, and all of our friends and family who have provided so much support in so many ways during Eric’s illness.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to ARCH Hospice or the charity of your choice. Payable by cheque or online.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com. to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).