The Vastamaki and Lintunen families are saddened to announce the passing of their mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great grandmother, Hilkka Vastamaki, at the age of 91 years. She suffered with cancer and was eager to leave the pain behind and reunite with her spouse, family members and friends who had preceded her to her heavenly home.
Hilkka was born in Pomarkku, Finland on May 11th, 1932. She married Aimo Vastamaki to whom she was with until his death four years ago, after which she lost her zest for life. They immigrated to Canada with their eldest son in 1955 to start their new adventure. While here they had two more children, Diane and Eric. As per dad’s wishes, mom stayed home with her children to provide them with a stable home.
Hilkka was a devote Christian and her church life was very important to her. She was a member of Saalem Pentecostal Church for many decades, and was a prayer warrior and an inspiration to all who knew her. She frequently had encouraging words to those who were struggling.
Mom loved to travel and with her husband they travelled to their homeland of Finland many times to visit with family and friends there. Florida was also a destination for them where she truly enjoyed the heat and sunshine on her face. Mom used to have her family over for dinners making her specialties like spaghetti and curried chicken. She always made enough to feed a small army. She also frequently made a huge pot of rice pudding which she distributed to her many friends especially when she lived at Suomi Koti.
Hilkka is survived by her children: Markku(Aira), Diane (Jouni), and Eric (Annie). Grandchildren: Annika, Eerika, Ryan, Shane, Nathan and Niina. Great Grandchildren: Allayah, Athan, Levi, Arie, Jackson, Emily, Ava, Isabella, Manny and Kai. She will be forever remembered and missed.
As per her wishes, cremation has taken place and a private memorial was held on April 23rd.
The family wishes to thank everyone for the cards, flowers, phone calls, messages and texts received from far and wide.
