1930-2026
It is with great sadness that we share the news of Aapo Myllymaa’s passing on September 9, 2026, at Pioneer Ridge, at the age of 96.
Aapo was born on July 14, 1930, in Honkilahti, Finland and moved to Canada in 1955 with his cousin Pekka Virtanen. Once in Canada, he worked as a cutter in bush camps, a carpenter, a sand truck driver, and a pulp truck driver. In 1957 he met Sinikka, the love of his life, and they got married in 1958. Together they had two children, Katriina and Peter. Aapo took immense pride in his grandchildren and often shared stories about how special his girls were. For many years he made Sunday morning deliveries of Finnish pancakes for “his girls.”
Aapo had a deep love for nature. He spent countless years taking his family camping and fishing. After finishing his workday at the bush camp, he would head out to pick blueberries. He also devoted a lot of time cutting wood to keep their home and camp warm; “one could never have too much wood,” he’d say.
Aapo contributed to the reconstruction of Fort William Historical Park; within its structures are his initials carved into timber used during the building process. He received recognition from the Government of Ontario for his role in this project.
Aapo was a loyal friend who enjoyed visiting with loved ones at their homes or while they were in hospitals or Long-Term Care facilities. He always made an effort to stay connected with people, especially those whose families lived far away. When visits weren’t possible, he made sure to call instead.
He is survived by his daughter Katriina (Robert); son Peter (Jennifer); daughter/niece Sari; grandchildren Katia, Raija, Ava, and Paige; brother Heimo; sister Tuula; sisters-in-law Lilja, Eila and Hilkka; along with many relatives both in Canada and Finland.
Aapo was predeceased by his dear wife Sinikka; parents Väinö and Anna Myllymaa; brothers Antti, Matti, Jaakko, Martti, Pentti, Viljo; sister Annikki; sister-and-brother-in-law Sisko and Yrjö Ranta-Ojala; plus numerous family members across Canada and Finland.
We want to thank the compassionate staff at Pioneer Ridge for their dedication and care provided to Aapo during his stay there. Friends wishing to honor Aapo’s memory can make donations to either the Lutheran Community Care Centre or the Helping Hands Auxiliary at Pioneer Ridge Home for the Aged. As per Aapo’s wishes cremation has occurred and a private family service will be held later on.
The arrangements have been entrusted to EVEREST FUNERAL CHAPEL located at 299 Waverley Street at Algoma. Please leave your online condolences at everestofthunderbay. com
