KOSKINIEMI, Toivo

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Toivo Koskiniemi of Chelmsford, Ontario, on the Koskiniemi farm on July 23, 2020 at the age of 69. Loving husband of Krystyna Koskiniemi (Czerwinski) of 45 years. Adored father of Kimberly (Mario) Lefebvre, Kaarina (Jay) Gorham and Kelly (Dale) Chabot. Treasured grandfather of Adele Patricia, Sophie Krystyna, Kinlee Joan, Landon Toivo, Alyssa Betty and Daphnee Helen. Dear son of Iivari and Fanni Koskiniemi (both predeceased). Brother of Eila Basto (late Niilo), late Matti, Eero (late Maija) (Maija), Laila Jarvenpaa (George), Tuula Ayotte (Serge), Liisa Evershed (Don), Linda Huneault (late Normand), Irma Paquin (Larry) and late Raimo (Liliane). Son in-law of Anthony and Elizabeth Czerwinski (both predeceased). Brother-in-law of Ed Czerwinski (Judy) and Yadzia Onnis (late Vahur). Cherished friend of the Barrett family. He will be sadly missed by all his nieces, nephews, and friends. Born in Kauhajoki, Finland, Toivo immigrated to Canada 68 years ago, where his family settled on the farm in Chelmsford, Ontario. At the young age of 14, upon his mother’s passing, he dedicated himself to the family farm. At 24 years old, he purchased the farm, and with Krystyna, created a beautiful life for their daughters and their families. An entrepreneur (T. Koskiniemi Excavating), he worked as a skilled heavy-equipment operator for 40 years until he retired due to illness, continuing to maintain the family farm. He was an expert mechanic welder, and jack-of-all-trades. Toivo’s deep passion for farming, his cattle and his love of the land was nothing short of admirable. He also enjoyed many camping memories with family and friends over the years and most recently, on Manitoulin Island, where he enjoyed salmon fishing in the fall. Toivo’s strength (sisu), sense of humour and passion for life was felt by all who met him. Family and friends will gather on Saturday, August 1st, 2020 from 10am – 12pm at Maplecrest Cemetery (595 Simmons Road, Dowling). Donations can be made in Toivo’s memory by cheque or online to the Northern Cancer Foundation or to the Sudbury West Nipissing Cattlemen’s Association. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the outdoor ceremony is limited to 100 people within the cemetery grounds at any one given time. If family and friends wish to attend from a safer distance, they are welcome to pay their respects from afar in front of the cemetery entrance. www.cooperativefuneralhome.ca