Lehtonen, Emil Olavi (Larry)
August 12, 1921 - November 25, 2006
Peacefully passed away at Glacier View Lodge in Courtenay on November 25, 2006 at the age of 85.
Larry was born August 12, 1921 in Comox Hospital. An only child, he was raised by his parents Saima and Emil (’Sailor’) who were both born in Finland. He lived with them in Oyster River, Bevan and briefly Vancouver before moving to Merville. He was married to Eileen Woodruff on June 27, 1941. He lived his married life with Eileen (’Woody’) on the family farm in Merville.
Larry dedicated many years working at Crown Zellerbach as a heavy duty mechanic and foreman. He was always very mathematically and mechanically inclined and enjoyed fixing machines and equipment. Larry created many innovative solutions to problems at work and around the farm. He volunteered his time to help restore the Comox Logging locomotive that is on display in Courtenay on the Island Highway.
He enjoyed fishing, woodcutting and using his timberjack. He liked to keep ties with the Finnish community in Merville.
Larry is survived by Eileen, his wife of 65 years. Larry will be greatly missed by his children: Larry (Barb), Maureen Holt (Bob), Susan Douglas (Dave) and Debbie Booth (Jim); his grandchildren: Lorena Kronstrom (Russ), Michael Holt (Jennifer), Dale Lehtonen, Lejette Lehtonen, Brooks Lehtonen, Alisa Douglas, Brian Douglas, Alexandra Booth and Daniel Booth; and his great-grandchildren: Joshua and Jenica Kronstrom, Bryden and Alexandria Holt and Brett Lehtonen. Larry was predeceased by his grandson Richard Holt.
Larry was always a generous provider for his wife and family. We are so glad that after retirement he was able to be involved with his grandchildren.
In memory of his life there will be a gathering at Comox Valley Funeral Home, 1101 Ryan Road, Courtenay on Saturday, December 2 at 2:00pm. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and volunteers at Glacier View Lodge for all their support and care.
In lieu of flowers may we suggest a donation to the Glacier View Lodge, 2450 Back Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 9G8 or the Alzheimer’s Society of B.C., #20 - 601 West Cordova Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 1G1.