FLORENCE KIISKILA

The family of Florence (Flo) Kiiskila are saddened with her passing on Dec. 17, 2025 at Southbridge Roseview, Thunder Bay. Flo's life journey was complete with commitment to her faith, family and community. Born Nov. 9, 1929 in Sudbury, Flo attended school, participated in sports and studied piano. She worked briefly for CN Telegraph, CP Freight and Imperial Oil. In 1948, Flo met Ray, her soulmate, later to wed in 1953 at St. John's Lutheran church. After several moves, Flo and her family settled in Port Arthur in 1974. It's here that she established longstanding roots in her community. She had various positions working at Sears until she retired in 1988. She was a longtime member of Epiphany Lutheran church and later transferred to Hilldale Lutheran church. While at Epiphany, Flo was active in LWML, she played organ for services, conducted various church choirs and established herself with the local International Choristers Guild. As a member of the local Breast Cancer Support Group 1993, Flo helped out with the Luncheons of Hope. Flo also volunteered at the 1997 Scout Jamboree held at Boulevard. Flo's greatest love and passion was singing and she joined the Thunder Bay Symphony Chorus in 1976. She participated in this group for 43 years and eagerly volunteered in TBSO fundraising initiatives. On Flo's 90th birthday she was officially recognized for her efforts and commitment to the chorus. She also participated in Sing For the Cure, an initiative for breast cancer held at St. Paul's Church. Flo had little time for leisure, but when she did, you could find her camping and fishing with Ray. She loved connecting with nature, going for walks, sitting in a lawn chair and swimming. Family BBQs and dinners were always a highlight. Sadly, Flo's world changed when Ray passed Dec. 23, 2001 due to a lengthy illness, followed by the passing of her beloved pet Muffy. Flo was very proud of her family and would often talk about them. She will be missed by son Stephen (Norma) Kiiskila, daughter Judy (Larry) Koss, grandchildren Andrew, Jennifer, Angelynn (Jamie) and Natalie (Matt) and eight great grandchildren. Flo is predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Florence Wilkes, brother Albert Wilkes and sister Miriam Olexy. The family would like to express deepest appreciation to those who supported and cared for Flo through her life journey. There are so many special people who enhanced her quality of life, guided her and gave her the attention that she so deserved. Cremation has taken place, with a memorial celebration to be held Friday, January 16, 2026, 1:00 p.m., at Hilldale Lutheran Church. A private family interment will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to any local charity. EVEREST FUNERAL CHAPEL, 299 Waverley Street at Algoma in care of arrangements.

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