May 1, 1938 – September 23, 2023
Heikki passed away peacefully at home on his farm with his children by his side. It was a beautiful first day of fall, September 23, 2023. Loving husband of Onerva (Kangas) and father of Irma Irvine (Michael) and Paul Oikari (Julie). Pappa of Melissa Watson (Jacey), Hayley Campbell (Brandon), and Jordan Oikari (Olivia), Maija Jones (Matt) and Brian Irvine (Dana Lowry). Great grandfather to Corbin, Emery, Laney, Hanson, Wilder and Tuukka. Predeceased by his parents Aune and Eero Oikari and survived by his siblings in Finland Eila Niemeläinen (late Raimo), Kaija Reinikainen (Kari), Marja Pölkki (Ossi), Pentti Oikari (Eila), Antti Oikari (Pirkko), and Tarja Honkonen (Erkki). Heikki grew up in the small town of Karstula, Finland. He would share tales of the ‘old country’, working many different jobs there from planting trees, making hats and working at an Esso garage. He said he had a lot of problems with his teeth, or maybe that was just a ploy to see the girl at the dentist’s office. One day he mustered up the courage to ask her to the movies and this was the start of 63 years together. He moved to Canada with his new bride Onerva. They settled down in Desbarats. Heikki was always a hard worker, and well respected within the community. He ran a successful farm, later being passed on to his son Paul, and now to his grandson Jordan. He enjoyed time at his camp on Caribou Lake, spending time with his growing family, and working on his property. He wouldn’t pass up an opportunity for a sauna and swim, even on a particularly warm Christmas Day. We will remember him for his sense of humour, work ethic and being a supportive family man.
In his words “see you on the other side!”
The family would like to extend their gratitude to home care nurses Amy & Jessica as well as Dr. Booth. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ontario Finnish Rest Home Association (OFRA). A private family interment will take place at Mount Pleasant (Gordon Lake) Cemetery at a later date.