February 12, 1934 - June 22, 2021
Harold E. Koivisto, Member of Military Merit, Special Service Medal (NATO), Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal, Canada Decoration (2 bars)
The last of the first generation Koivistos who were born in Canada.
Predeceased by mother Tynne, father Mertsi and sisters; Peggy & Mildred, and bother Roy. Also predeceased by his son Craig, grand daughter Chelsea and his first spouse, Georgette Ricard.
Survived by 2nd spouse Janice Leonard, daughters; Carol (Dave), Wendy, Heidi (Steves), daughter in law Dawn (Ken), adopted son, Paul, Grandchildren; Carly, Laurissa (Geoff), Asia, Devon, Matti (Sarah), JP, and great grandchildren; Keira, Victoria, Dominic, Halen, Mason, Colt and Maverick. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews in Ontario and Quebec.
Harry joined the RCAF as a young man. His career consisted of the Armament trade, Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialty, Para Rescue specialty, special weapons loader and instructor in all the specialties.
Towards the end of his 38 year career he became a weapons safety inspector and policy guru for Maritime Air Command in Halifax, NS, Air Command in Winnipeg, MB, and Flight Safety at National Defence HQ, Ottawa, ON.
His postings included many places in Canada, England, France, two tours to Germany, as well as, deployments to Rabat, French Morocco and the odd stint in Sardinia, Italy. Upon retirement he and his family decided the Comox Valley was the place to enjoy the good life.
When I come to the end of the road
And the sun has set for me,
I want no tears or gloom filled room
Why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little - but not too long
And not with your head bowed low
Remember the love we all shared
Miss me but let me go!
Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, Glenfiddich Scotch in one hand, cigar in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out, screaming, "WOO HOO! What a ride!"