Gladys "Mona" Nieminen

Gladys (Mona) Nieminen (nee Bellin) passed away peacefully with her family by her side, at St Joseph's Hospice, Saturday April 13th 2013. Mona was born January 7th, 1931 in Fort Frances, Ont. Mona was well known in Kaministiquia where she and husband Paul began their venture of Wildwoode Variety Store and Campgrounds in 1971. She was also Postmaster of Kaministiquia for many years. In her later years she moved to Dorothy St. where she was well known for her home-made perogies, cabbage rolls and pies and biweekly jam sessions. Probably what Mona was most known for was her love of music. Country music was her passion. She shared her gift with family, friends & community. Under various group names she and her fellow musicians sang and played for the elderly and sick at St. Joseph's Heritage, St. Joseph's Hospice and various homes for the aged. Her Thursday night jam sessions were a much anticipated event. A wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Mona opened her heart and doors to all. Her home was always buzzing with family and friends and the coffee pot was always on. She was a kind and loving person. Mona will be sadly missed by her family: children Brian (Joy), Dana (Debbie), Wendy (Pete Dingwell), and Catherine; grandchildren Aaron, Brett, Corey, Graeme, Marcie (Brad Knox), Jennifer Kivisto (Jeff Mehagan), Wesley Kivisto (Karen Pope), Kai and Tiia Rehula; step-grandchildren Alexandra and Jordyn Dingwell; step-great- grandchildren Rahne and Avril Mehagan; brothers Wayne Bellin (Tina) and Doug Bellin (Marilyn); sister-in-law Iris Bellin; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by the love of her life Paul Nieminen, brother Carl (Sonny) Bellin, and parents Herbert and Eve Bellin. We would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of St. Joseph's Hospice. Also thank-you to Corey and Robin from Bayshore, and to her numerous doctors, especially Dr. Harris and lifelong family physician Dr. Colquhoun. We also want to thank all the extended family and friends who called and visited Mom. She thoroughly enjoyed the company and all the special treats people brought her. A celebration of her life will take place on Thursday, April 18, 2013 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at North End Recreation Centre, 954 Huron Ave. Guests are welcome to join in a 'jam session' in her honour. Should friends so desire, donations may be made in Mona's memory, to the charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to the EVEREST FUNERAL CHAPEL, 299 Waverley Street at Algoma. Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com "