KAARLO « KARL » HERMAN WILJALA
June 8, 1939 to November 24, 2020
Kaarlo Herman Wiljala “ slipped the surly bonds of earth,reached out his hand and touched the Face of God”, in the early evening of Tuesday November 24,2020.
Karl Wiljala was born to Finnish immigrant parents Kalle and Anni Wiljala and was raised on the family homestead with his two sisters Aune and Anita and his brothers Lauri,Onni,Reino. Just outside of Kakabekka Falls the family’s heritage is commemorated by a highway sign declaring “Wiljala Drive » as a testament to the founding family.
Karl attended a one-room school house in Conmee Township replacing his first language with English. He graduated from Selkirk High School Business as Validictorian.He began his work life with Ontario Hydro, was employed with Wanson Lumber and retired from Nor-Ont Supply, all in Thunder Bay.
Karl had a definite weakness for fast cars,snowmachines and country music played loud. A steady, quiet man, he held true liberal values, accepting people without judgement and helping those in need whenever he was able. His love of the outdoors was shared by his wife Alma Lee (Byzewski) and their two children Mitchell and Kara.
Karl was happiest in his boat fishing. Summer vacations at Rainy Lake created cherished memories: a ten month old Kara,experienced her first shore lunch on her father’s knee, Mitchell caught his first big bass.
Karl was a Hockey Dad, happily attended Mitchell’s games and drove through the prerequisites blizzard conditions to tournaments.
In 2010 Karl proudly watched his son graduate from College after enduring a debilitating stroke just months before.
Throughout his life Karl was especially close with his sister Anita and her husband Wally Reinsmith. Wally and Karl spent countless hours fishing together and just as many finding their way out of the bush.
They remained dear companions in his later years taking him to their camp and on driving outings
As his health declined,Karl resided at Roseview Long Term Care Home.
Karl is survived by Anita and Wally Reinsmith,there two daughters,Brenda Burke and family,Sandra Reinsmith and family. His American niece Anita Harper and family,her brother Michael Wiljala and family. Alma Lee ,Mitchell and Kara are forever grateful for the love and care bestowed on them by this kind and wonderful man. Karl is survived by his wife Alma Lee,his son Mitchell Arthur Lee and his partner Shannon ,their children Madison and Hunter Wiljala, his daughter Kara Alexandra and her son Alexander Lee Wiljala.
“Jesus the Fisherman, Jesus the Saviour » we commend his soul to your keeping.
The family wishes all Karl’s friends and family to celebrate his life by supporting The Salvation Army’s “Journey to Life ». Cremation has taken place. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre, 332 North May Street, Thunder Bay.
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Tuesday November 24th 2020
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Kaarlo Herman Karl Wiljala Tuesday November 24th 2020..
Décès pour la Ville:Thunder Bay, Province: Ontario