Lehtinen, Markku Juhani

Markku Juhani Lehtinen
June 4th, 1950 –
May 20th, 2010

``The Journey Continues . . . ``
With much grace and dignity, Markku Juhani Lehtinen passed away on May 20th, 2010 at the Thunder Bay Regional hospital with his family by his side. Markku (Mark) was born on June 4th, 1950 in Happajarvi, Finland. At age 8, Mark immigrated to Canada with his family. At a young age, Mark would spend hours in the garage, either fixing something or creating new projects, a pastime that would continue throughout his life. Through the guidance of his father, Mark gained the practical skills of life, as well as the skills of welding, fabricating, and mechanics, but in school, he learned the art of Culinary, a talent Mark showed off during family gatherings. In 1973, he married Diane and shortly after, they travelled to British Columbia. After the return home in 1975, they settled in Kaministiquia, where they raised their family and made many friends. Mark was always ready to give a hand to help others. Whenever someone needed something fixed, they would call on Mark‘s expertise. He always found a solution. Mark was the community’s ``Jack`` of all trades: welder, mechanic, carpenter, machine operator, plumber, roofer, drywaller, masonry worker, and much more. However, Mark took the most pride in his rock work, creating stunning gardens, rock walls, steps, sidewalks, and ponds. He has left a legacy of beauty. He had a great love of fishing, hunting and outdoors, but nothing could compare to the love he had for his grandchildren, Alexis and Nicholas, who always brought a smile to his face. Mark’s family and friends all supported his decision to be at home during his illness and took great pleasure in the experiences that they shared with him: often painting for hours, playing cards or simply having a few laughs. Mark remained positive throughout and was a great inspiration to all . Everyone who shared in his journey was enriched by the experience. Mark truly has left his mark. He will be missed dearly by many. Diane and the family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all Mark’s caregivers, neighbours, friends, and family members who enriched his last days. Mark leaves his wife, Diane (Pennanen), daughter, Sarah; sons, Daniel (Tammy) and Derick; grandchildren, Alexis and Nicholas, as well as sisters (Vuokko, Margit, Birgit, and Satu) and brother (Jari). He is predeceased by brother, Sakari, in 1991 and parents, Arturri and Kerttu, in 2007. An outdoor Memorial Service will be held on June 4th at 5:00pm at the Dog River Cemetery (Silver Falls Rd.). The service will be followed by a celebration of Mark’s life at the Kaministiquia Community Centre from approximately 6:30- 9:30pm. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations to the Lung Society or Heart and Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated.