December 31, 1942 - February 12, 2026
It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Roy Allan Nalli. Surrounded by the love of his family, Roy passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) following a courageous battle with cancer and other health challenges. Roy remained in the comfort of his home until just three days before his passing. Roy was born December 31st, 1942 in Port Arthur to Jalmar and Ida Nalli. He was raised in Intola Township alongside his brothers, Arnold and Leo. His love for pets began at an early age. Roy continued to always have a dog by his side. Roy attended Five Mile School and Port Arthur Technical and Commercial High School. Roy's employment began in 1964 as a Highway Surveyor in Kenora. Returning to Thunder Bay, Roy was employed at Vulcan Machinery as Purchasing Manager. Following its closure, he co-founded Kutlog Manufacturing before launching the automotive paint supply division at Superior Coatings. It was his love of painting cars that led to Roy's dedication as he successfully grew the business over 20 years, retiring at the age of 81. In 1964, Roy married Lorraine (Zywina) and together they raised four children, Joyce, Cindy, Allan and Marlene. Roy took his family on many camping and road trips. He taught his children to fish, waterski, motorbike, cross country ski and snowmobile. He ensured the next generations inherited his love for cards, cribbage and knowing exactly when to "bring your quarters to the table." Following Lorraine's passing in 1986, Roy formed a partnership with Gloria Baglien. They were inseparable for over 35 years. Gloria stood by Roy's side and looked after him until his passing. Roy enjoyed curling and golfing and was a member of the Port Arthur Curling Club and Emerald Greens Golf Course. He bowled and coached hockey at the Carrick outdoor rink for many years and loved a night out at Hanson's Pool Hall. He hunted and fished and organized the annual "Sturgeon 300 Club" fishing trip for over 40 years. Roy spent many summers at Amberlite Campground where he made many life long friends. Roy was the life of the party on "Hangover Hill" organizing cribbage and horseshoe tournaments, dances, and fireworks displays. His life was rich in friendships, formed during childhood, sports, work and at "The Bar." Each one a reflection of how easy he connected with people. Roy will forever be a dedicated fan to the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Blue Jays and enjoyed Nascar. Celebrating his Finnish heritage Roy and Gloria joined the annual St. Urho's Day parade. Roy was a legend with his storytelling, his sharp sense of humor, his laugh before a picture was taken and his classic Finnish jokes. He often reminded everyone, "I tell the jokes around here". Roy is survived by partner, Gloria Baglien, children, Joyce (Brent) Dubinsky, Cindy (Tom) Posmituk, Allan (Tanya) Nalli, and Marlene (Rob) Trystruha; grandchildren, Chelsie (Adam) De Vos, Ali Dubinsky (Cole), Adam Dubinsky, Ashley Bortolin, Jordan Posmituk (Megan), Jevan Nalli, Kenan Nalli, Cody Trystruha (Kate), and Colin Trystruha (Alana); great-grandchildren, Charlie De Vos, Cohen Bortolin and Jillian Trystruha. Also survived by numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and friends. He was predeceased by wife, Lorraine Nalli, parents, Jalmar and Ida Nalli, brothers, Arnold Nalli and Leo Nalli, in laws Lloyd Zywina, Regina Coulombe, George Coulombe and grandson Brady Dubinsky.
Roy's words: "I go now, hello."
Thank you to the doctors and staff at St. Joseph Care Group. Special thanks to Nori at SJCG for your lighthearted way, always encouraging Roy to keep up with his physiotherapy. A very special thank you to the staff at TBRHSC Emergency Department and 3C for your care and compassion for Roy and his entire family.
A celebration of Roy's life will be held Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 12:00pm at the Italian Hall, 132 Algoma St. A donation in Roy's memory can be made to Paws for Love Dog Rescue
[email protected] or any
Charity of Your Choice.
Condolences may be made through
www.nwfainc.comPublished by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Feb. 28, 2026.