Lempi Sofia Koski

1906 - 2015

(nee Hoxell)
The family of Lempi Koski regret to announce her passing on November 22, 2015 just after her 109th birthday. Born in Port Arthur, ON on November 5, 1906, she moved with her parents to Kivikoski, or up the farm (as she would say) at the age of 4 and went to school there as soon as she was allowed. Known to her family as Gram, she always had a welcoming home to grandchildren and great-grandchildren that came to visit. She was very active in the Thunder Bay Kennel and Training Club in her younger years both in training dogs and judging dog shows. She ran a successful kennel, Gailinga Kennels, for many years breeding and boarding dogs and cats. Some of her German Shepherd pups going as far away as England and Germany. She also enjoyed playing Bridge and would never turn down a trip to the casino. Lempi was predeceased by daughter Carol (at age 4), husband Ray, both parents, three brothers and son-in-law Gerry. She leaves daughter June Steinhoff, 6 Grandchildren, 15 Great Grandchildren and 2 Great Great Grandchildren as well as sister-in-law Martha Hoxell and nieces and nephews. A family graveside service will be held Thursday, December 3 at 2:00 pm at Riverside Cemetery. Pastor Matthew Diegel officiating.