Kaitlin Elizabeth Restall

1980 - 2022

November 20, 1980 – September 25, 2022

It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our cherished Kaitlin Elizabeth Restall, on September 25, 2022; the result of a tragic car accident.

Kaitlin was born on November 20, 1980, in Thunder Bay, where she was raised with her parents, and brother and sister. They spent their summers swimming and having saunas at their camp on Spike Lake, Kaitlin's happy place. Many memories were made at the lake with her family, including her cousins, aunts, uncles, and her Mummu and Pappa. She had a special bond with so many. During the school year, she participated in cross-country and downhill skiing, swimming lessons, indoor and outdoor soccer, and dance. Kaitlin was a gifted athlete and soccer remained a passion throughout her life.

As a young adult, Kaitlin trained as a massage therapist. She had a natural talent to treat her clients and loved taking care of people. It was during this time that Kaitlin moved to the Sunshine Coast in British Columbia, her second favourite spot. She loved B.C.; the ocean, rainforests, and beaches. Kaitlin could go beach-combing for hours, often losing track of time, searching for sea glass with her pets. Her love for animals is something she will always be remembered for. Kaitlin had a keen interest in animals and a deep level of compassion. At one point, she had two dogs, three cats, two rabbits, and even a pet squirrel. Her most recent dog, MJ, was her loyal companion and shadow, and died at her side. 

Kaitlin eventually moved back to Thunder Bay; she loved this city and being close to her family. It was here that she gave birth to her two sons, Jakob and Ezekiel. Becoming a mother was transformative for Kaitlin. She was a loving, devoted, and fun-loving mother. The boys were the centre of her universe and it was evident with the elaborate birthday parties, thoughtful gifts, and excursions all around the city. If there was an event or festival in Thunder Bay, Kaitlin would be sure to bring the boys, where they would all show up in perfectly coordinated and themed outfits. 

It was also in Thunder Bay that she met her spouse, Michael. Being part Finnish herself, and having a strong connection to her culture, she was ecstatic to meet a fellow-Finlander. Not only was Michael Finnish, but he spoke the language and was a carpenter, just like her Pappa. Kaitlin was witty and had an incredible sense of humour, and she and Michael shared many laughs together. As a family, Kaitlin, Michael, and the boys spent as much time as they could at the family camp. They made a lifetime of memories having hot saunas, swimming, fishing, paddle boarding, enjoying bonfires, and exploring the forest. Kaitlin loved nothing more than being in nature with her loved ones.

Kaitlin leaves to mourn her incredibly loved sons, Jakob Restall and Ezekiel Rossi; her devoted partner, Michael Rossi; her loving and dedicated parents, Ritva and Jim Restall; her sister, Allison Moulson (Nathanael); her brother, Ian Restall (Judith Paget); sister-in-law, Amy Kukkee (Chris); mother- and father-in-law, Merja and Erkki Rossi; Mummu, Toini Vataja; her godparents Judy and Stan Restall; her treasured nieces and nephews, Elli and Mayla Moulson, Edward Parker, Cole and Everett Restall, and Keenan and Ezra Kukkee; and many cousins, aunts, and uncles who are also devastated by the loss of this special person.

Kaitlin was predeceased by her aunt, Sinikka Bisby; her niece, Isabel Kukkee; her uncle, Henry Koski-Harja; her Pappa, Martti Vataja; and her grandparents, Elizabeth and Stan Restall.

It was Kaitlin's wish that her ashes be spread at the family's lake. A private service will be held to honour her. Family and friends who wish to pay their respects and remember Kaitlin are invited to Hilldale Lutheran Church from 3:00-5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 13, 2022.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made online to Kaitlin's GoFundMe page for her sons. The funds raised will be used for the boys' education and extracurricular activities.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James.

Please sign the online condolences at
everestofthunderbay.com