Obituary for Juhani Pekka (Jussi) John Ruhanen
John (Jussi) Ruhanen passed away peacefully at the Sault Area Hospital on April 17, 2023. He is survived by his caring wife Linda (Marija) Ruhanen; his loving children Lisa Keranen (Dan) and Ivan Ruhanen (Chandra) and adoring grandchildren Aila, Seija & Leo.
John was the son of Sulo & Lempi; brother of Erkki, Ulla, Pirkko, Leena & predeceased siblings: Leila, Seppo, Sirkka, Orvokki & Marjatta. He was the uncle to many in both Canada and Finland.
John was born in Mantyharju, Finland July 30, 1945. He was the youngest son in a large family. He moved to Canada where he met the love of his life, Linda. They would spend hours enjoying Finnish music and dancing.
He later returned to serve in the Finnish Army and was always concerned about his homeland. John worked as a carpenter and built a beautiful home for their young family. Together they spent their time outdoors & travelling. Jussi developed a passion for hunting moose, deer, elk & caribou and shared many adventures with friends. He had a wonderful voice and sang baritone for the Finnish Mens “Kalevala” Choir for 25 years.
Once retired, he began to work on the family cottage which he called his legacy. It was his favourite place to be and a project that he loved. His architectural creativity came through by blending nature and woodworking. In between swinging a hammer, he would fire up the sauna. He welcomed all those who visited the camp with a smile, a taste of “Suola Kala” and a drink. As his health deteriorated, progress slowed, and he relied on the kindness of others. John was at peace as he found solace there.
We will celebrate his life with a gathering this summer.
In lieu of donations, please celebrate his memory with an activity that allows you and your family to share some precious moments together.
Special “Thank You”: Dr. Taylor, Dr. Berry, Dr. Shaffiee, Dr. Beuhner, Paramed, Jeff @ Community Paramedic Services, Kai Hamalainen, Nancy Hutchinson and O’Sullivan Funeral Home for their exceptional care.
John was the son of Sulo & Lempi; brother of Erkki, Ulla, Pirkko, Leena & predeceased siblings: Leila, Seppo, Sirkka, Orvokki & Marjatta. He was the uncle to many in both Canada and Finland.
John was born in Mantyharju, Finland July 30, 1945. He was the youngest son in a large family. He moved to Canada where he met the love of his life, Linda. They would spend hours enjoying Finnish music and dancing.
He later returned to serve in the Finnish Army and was always concerned about his homeland. John worked as a carpenter and built a beautiful home for their young family. Together they spent their time outdoors & travelling. Jussi developed a passion for hunting moose, deer, elk & caribou and shared many adventures with friends. He had a wonderful voice and sang baritone for the Finnish Mens “Kalevala” Choir for 25 years.
Once retired, he began to work on the family cottage which he called his legacy. It was his favourite place to be and a project that he loved. His architectural creativity came through by blending nature and woodworking. In between swinging a hammer, he would fire up the sauna. He welcomed all those who visited the camp with a smile, a taste of “Suola Kala” and a drink. As his health deteriorated, progress slowed, and he relied on the kindness of others. John was at peace as he found solace there.
We will celebrate his life with a gathering this summer.
In lieu of donations, please celebrate his memory with an activity that allows you and your family to share some precious moments together.
Special “Thank You”: Dr. Taylor, Dr. Berry, Dr. Shaffiee, Dr. Beuhner, Paramed, Jeff @ Community Paramedic Services, Kai Hamalainen, Nancy Hutchinson and O’Sullivan Funeral Home for their exceptional care.