After a few years of declining health, in his 77th year, Seppo passed away on Thursday, July 14, 2016 in Sault Ste. Marie, ON just 4 short months after the passing of his wife Sinikka (Sini).
Missing his sense of humour are his daughters Shirley Pulkkinen (husband Veli) of Sault Ste. Marie, and Nancy Hutchinson (husband Garth) of Oshawa. “Grumpa” of Esa, Mika and Kai Pulkkinen. Seppo looked forward to the times with Jussi Ruhanen and his wife Linda, and also niece Lisa Keranen and her husband Dan, and, the youngest family members Seija and Leo Keranen. He was also proud of the accomplishments of nephew Ivan Ruhanen (wife Chandra Dickau) and daughter Aila in Alberta. Brother to Eric (Sudbury,ON), sisters Pirkko and Ulla (BC) and Leena and Leila (Finland). Predeceased by his parents Sulo Ruhanen and Lempi Jutila, and, sisters Marjatta, Orvokki, and Sirkka. Many nieces and nephews in Canada and Finland. Friend to many, including his Centre Street neighbours who supported Seppo and Sini in their final years at their family home. Born in 1939 in Mantyharju, Finland, Seppo moved to Sault Ste. Marie where he met his wife and raised a family. He was always a “Mighty Hunter” and as a ski jumper was known as the “Flying Finn”. Carpentry was in his Finnish blood. His favourite place was at his camp at Desbarats Lake with friends. In respecting Seppo’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. The staff at Kotitalo at the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) made the last year of both our parents’ lives comfortable and safe. If you wish to make a donation, his daughters would be honoured if you would consider a donation to OFRA where dignity and respect are the cornerstones of compassion. Donations will be going directly for an adult outdoor sports playground which encourages movement, dexterity, balance and play. A special thank you to Dr. Hirvi who was always thoughtful and respectful in his care of Seppo. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home & Cremation Centre (492 Wellington St. East, 705-759-2522). Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.arthurfuneralhome.com