February 15, 1925 – March 31, 2025
We sadly announce the passing of Asta Kohler – wife of the late Ralph, mother of Helle Hull (Warren), grandmother of Jeremy Hull (Renee), late Michael Hull, Tamara Beck (Garrett) and Matthew Hull (Stevie). She was also a great-grandmother of 7 (soon to be 8) and would have been a great-great-grandmother to her first in early May.
Mom initially arrived in Montreal, QC from Estonia around 1948 and after meeting my Dad they married and settled in Sault Ste. Marie, ON in 1951. She worked various jobs but eventually studied and obtained her Registered Nursing Assistant Certificate from the College of Nurses of Ontario in 1970 after which she worked at the General Hospital (mostly Pediatrics) for approximately 10 years.
Dad unfortunately passed away at a young age and because she never drove, she would be seen walking everywhere, often making 2 or 3 trips a day and people would marvel at the various places in town where they would see her. Although offers of rides and close bus services were usually available, she often declined because she simply loved walking regardless of the weather or season. Even when Dad was alive, if he was working, she would often walk to and/or from work.
For the 40 plus years she was on her own, she was a trooper. She persevered, rebounded from various challenges and lived her 100 years of life to the best of her abilities. For several years she was a member of a hiking club, loved cross-country skiing and also made a number of trips with the Sunshine Club as well as a trip to Germany and a few return trips to Estonia. She stayed in her own home until the age of 93 – tending her yard and gardens.
Cremation has taken place and as per Mom’s wishes there will be no funeral service.
Our sincerest thanks and God’s blessing to the staff at the Ontario Finnish Resthome (Kotitalo Assisted Living) and to the doctors and staff at Sault Area Hospital - for all their compassion and care.
Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.northwoodfuneral.com.
“Mina armastan sind Ema” – I love you Mom!