Obituary of Eila Tuulikki Male

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday July 7, 2010 after a lengthy illness, Eila was born in Toronto, Ontario on November 7, 1932. The only daughter of Ada and Walter Rauma, Eila settled with her parents in the Finnish community of Websters Corners in 1936. Eila is survived by her loving family: husband, Derek, daughters Victoria (Brian), Lori (Bryan), Andrea (Bernie), and grandchildren Jason, Michael and Jasmine, and many relatives in Finland. During her life, Eila donated to various worthy causes related to the arts, health, education, peace, poverty and justice. She volunteered on numerous committees and organizations. Throughout her adult life, Eila was a rich resource for local writers and academics interested in the Canadian/Finnish culture. In 2008, her vast historical knowledge was recognized when she was invited by academics at UBC to provide a speech on Finnish settlement in Canada and British Columbia. Eila enjoyed all kinds of music. She loved to dance, travel, read and spend time with family and friends. For her, family was ‘number one’. She was loving, kind, compassionate, and in times of adversity continued to display an engaging sense of humour. Her quest for knowledge never ceased. She is, and will be, deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. A celebration of Eila’s life will take place on Sunday, July 25, 2010 at 1:00 pm at Meadow Gardens, 19675 Meadow Gardens Way, Pitt Meadows. In lieu of flowers, donations in Eila’s name to McKenney Creek Hospice in Maple Ridge will be greatly appreciated. Condolences can be sent to www.gardenhill.ca. “May the winds of love blow gently, so you can hear, that we will always love and miss you, and wish that you were here” Nakemiin (Goodbye).