Nurmi, John Urpo (1952-2023)

John, or otherwise known as Jussi, Johnny, or Big John loved his one-on-one conversations, and he touched the lives of so many this way.  The family is saddened to announce his passing on January 8, 2023, at the age of 70. John was the husband and companion for 40 years to Joni (nee Zaitz). John was the oldest son of Ilona and Urpo Nurmi Jr., both predeceased. He was a brother to Helen Gibbons (Ken), Maria “Mia” Nurmi (Marc Robillard). John will be reunited with his predeceased brothers Paavo and Toivo. John was an uncle to Greg and Chris Gibbons and great uncle to Savannah and Brody. He was close to his cousin Lauri. John will be missed by the Zaitz family. Son in law to Joseph and Viola Zaitz and Audrey Johnston all predeceased. Brother-in-law to Jim Zaitz (Beth predeceased), Suanne Lindsay (Dave) and uncle to Kristi Haddad. John grew up at Little Penage and then shared his love for the lake with Joni. Together Joni and John were avid fishermen and gardeners. They treasured their time spent together at Little Penage, Duke Lake, and the farm in Wanup. John was a meticulous cook who was proud to prepare delicious pulla and cookies for family and friends. John was a voracious reader and well versed on many topics in conversation. After working at different mines, John switched careers to work in maintenance at Finlandia Village. For 25 years, he loved working with the Finlandia Village “family”. Special thanks to all the health care staff who took special care during his illness. John especially loved his conversations with the volunteers from Wheels of Hope. A Celebration of Life to follow at a later date. Donations to Finlandia Sisu Charitable Foundation or Wheels of Hope Canadian Cancer Society.

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3 Condolences

  1. May happy memories carry you through this sorrowful time.

    Love, Marlene, Fred and Diane

    By: Diane L Ginson
    January 14, 2023
  2. Dear Joni, Suanne, Dave and Kristi:

    Our hearts go out to you during this horrible time.

    The obituary was a beautiful homage to John’s life and we learned a great deal about this complex and interesting man who will no doubt be sorely missed by so many.

    Such a terrible loss, but what a legacy he leaves behind!

    By: Linda, Larry, Troy and Avalon
    January 11, 2023
  3. I knew John and his family when they lived on Little Penage and I lived on Penage Lake Road. He and his brother provided the music for our teen dances at the Penage Lake Community Center. So sorry to hear of his passing, many treasured memories from our shared past.
    Roma

    By: Roma Lundgren
    January 11, 2023

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