The family of Shirley Ann Laatu (nee Peuramaki), age 86, are saddened to announce her passing on August 13, 2023 at John Owen Evans Residence in Geraldton.
Shirley was born on April 3, 1937 to Hilda and Joseph Peuramaki and grew up on the farm in Kaministiquia where her love for birds, flowers and gardening began. She enjoyed her home and was always baking to satisfy dad’s sweet tooth and hers. Shirley loved to knit and crochet, especially baby blankets for all of her great-grandchildren.
After a few years living on Dawson Road, Shirley, Oiva and their young family moved to Hillsport in 1962 and then to Caramat in 1974 where she resided until 2022; she loved her little community.
Shirley is survived by her husband of 67 years, Oiva, daughter Heather (Macky), sons Keith (Donna) and Randy; grandchildren, James (Debbie), Scott (Tara), Shannon (Kevin) and Brent (Brittany); great-grandchildren, Evan, Nolan, Aurora, Ava, Bode, Kase and Easton. She is also survived by her sisters Aila Laatu, Janet (Arnold) Lehto, sisters-in-law Anita Laatu, Toini Viheriasalo, brother-in-law Martti Puumala and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was predeceased by her parents, brothers Vilppo, Veikko, Kalervo and Unto and sisters Linnea, Miriam, Elna, Nona, Lyyli, Helmi, Eila and Evelyn.
Shirley’s family would like to thank the staff at John Own Evans Residence for the excellent care she received during her time there.
Cremation has taken place; a service will be held at a later date.
