Carla Olaechea

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Carla Olaechea (nee) Stupendick on June 19 th at St. Joseph’s Hospital surrounded by her family. Born on January 30 th , 1957 in Fort William, Ontario, Carla grew up and raised a family of her own in the East End of Thunder Bay where she remained until her passing.

Carla attended St Peter’s Elementary School then proceeded on to Fort William Collegiate High School. She continued her education as a Registered Nursing Assistant and graduated in the late 1970’s. Carla spent most of her career supporting people in need at the rehab centre at the Westmount Hospital and then on to St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Carla is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Manuel Olaechea, three daughters, Liz Johnson(Ryan), Natalia Leblanc (Shaun), and Lucia Olaechea; nephew, Cory Stupendick(Krista) and extended family, from the Basque Country, including Sister-in-laws, Teresa Olaechea(Celso), Mikeli Olaechea and Conchita Olaechea(Juan-Manuel); brother-in-law, Luis-Mary Olaechea(Mayte) and numerous nephews and nieces.

Carla is predeceased by her father, Steve Stupendick, her mother, Mary Harynuk and her brother, Randy Stupendick; Father-in-law, Ricardo Olaechea, Mother-in-law, Maria Alzugaray, Brother-in-law, Jose Olaechea and Sister-in-law, Pepita Olaechea.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the hospice nurses and doctors at St. Joseph’s Hospital and TBRHSC 3B. In Lieu of flowers or other gifts, donations in Carla’s memory can be made to TBRHSC Cancer Foundation and the St. Joseph’s Foundation.

Carla’s love, compassion and strength will live on in all who knew her. She will be missed beyond words and remembered with grace.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre,575 Central Avenue, Thunder Bay.

Euskal herria eta euskal jendea maite zenituen, Carla. Esker mila hainen lagun ona izateagatik. Agur, nire maitea Manuel Olaechea partez.