Anneli Marie Wainio

1933 - 2022

Anneli was born June 17, 1933, and passed away on October 14, 2022, at the age of 89. She grew up on a farm in Kaministiquia with her parents Lempi and Setti Hietanen. In 1953 she married Lauri Wainio, and they had two children, Eileen and Lawrence. In the late 1960s they managed the International Coop by the Kaministiquia River where they welcomed and served many local people. She was involved with her community through the Kam Hall and valued all her long-term friendships with the women of Kam. Together Lauri and Anneli built their camp at One Island Lake, a place that became home each summer as her children grew and where she enjoyed sauna, swimming, and fishing. She worked for many years at Bay Meats and loved her job and customers but hated the drive to and from work in the winter months.

In 2005, after her husband Lauri died, she swapped houses with her granddaughter Robin Nolan and her husband Wade and traded the hard red clay of Kam for a small cozy backyard with good growing soil in the city. Her garden, especially flowers, always brought her joy. She loved socializing and was always up for a good game of cribbage, especially with Connor, right up until the end. In collusion with her son, she held on to her independence by driving too long, well into her eighties.

She will be deeply missed by her daughter Eileen Krpan (Marin Krpan, died Jan. 1992) and son Lawrence Wainio (Judi Vinni), her grandchildren Jamie Krpan, Robin Nolan (Wade), Erin Krpan-Picard (Braydon Picard), Casey Krpan (Josh Seifer), Kelly Krpan (Bryan Bouchard), Jesse Krpan (Nathan Stewart), Eric Wainio (Emma Fergus-Moore) and Hanna Wainio and her great grandchildren Anabelle, Carter and Kash Bouchard and Alivia Picard. Her aunt & cousins (Linne, Eini, Aili, Gertie, & Jean) played an important role in her life.

Anneli's family thanks everyone who visited and called Anne over the past few years. She always loved company. We also thank the Regional's healthcare team on 2A for their compassionate care. Special thanks to the PSWs from Paramed, especially Nicole and Donna, who allowed Anneli to remain in her home. We appreciate all you have done.

A celebration of Anneli Wainio's life will be held on Monday, October 24th, 2022, from 1pm to 3pm at Suomi Koti, 527 County Blvd, Thunder Bay. If friends desire, donations to the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay would be greatly appreciated.

Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com