HOVILA, Raija
1941 – 2025
Our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Raija Marjatta Hovila (nee Anttonen) passed away peacefully at the Rocky Ridge Retirement Centre, Calgary, Alberta, where she had resided for the past five years, on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at the age of 83 years. Raija was born on October 23, 1941, in Parikkala, Finland. Her early life was shaped by the upheavals of World War II, as her family was forced to relocate further into Finland, settling in Imatra, when their village was ceded to the Soviet Union. She grew up in a lively household with six siblings, surrounded by the beauty of Finnish nature. As a young woman, Raija worked as a cold kitchen chef, at the prestigious, Hotel Kämp in Helsinki, before embarking on a life-changing journey. At the age of 17, she immigrated to Toronto, Canada, seeking new opportunities and adventure. In Toronto, Raija worked in various roles, including a Quality Inspector at a Hallmark Greeting Card Factory. While living in Toronto, she met Esko Hovila, with whom she shared many meaningful years. The two were married in 1967 and began a family, welcoming their first son, Michael, in 1971, followed by their second son, Matthew, in 1974. Shortly after Matthew’s birth, the family moved to Edmonton, Alberta, where Raija embraced her roles as a devoted mother and a woman of faith. During these years, she delighted in taking her sons on camping trips, fostering a love for nature and adventure. Her home became a welcoming haven for neighborhood children, many of whom regarded her as a second mom. Raija’s life was marked by resilience and a deep spiritual conviction. In the late 1970’s, she became a devout Evangelical Christian, finding great joy and strength in her faith. She was known for her profound belief in spiritual gifts, often sharing her hope and message of Christ with anyone she encountered. Despite facing significant challenges, including a lifelong battle with mental health issues, Raija remained a free spirit, navigating life’s challenges with a deep resilience and an enduring capacity for joy during her brighter moments. Her adventurous nature took her across Canada, living in cities like Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto, where she embraced new experiences and shared the Good News of her faith in Christ with all who would hear. In her later years, Raija’s family ensured she was cared for, granting her the peace and stability she deserved. Under the loving guardianship of her sons Michael and Matthew, she found solace and community at the Rocky Ridge Retirement Centre in Calgary, Alberta. She cherished her time there, surrounded by compassionate staff and visiting family. She found comfort in her faith until her final moments. Raija will be remembered for her loving heart, her unwavering faith, and her strength of spirit. She will be lovingly remembered by her sons, Michael (Jennifer) and Matthew; her grandchildren, Aidan and Kyla; her ex-husband, Esko (Anita); her sisters, Ritva and Anneli, and her many nieces, nephews, and friends across the globe. Raija was predeceased by her parents, Uuno and Helvi, and her other siblings, Raili, Veli, Arvo, and Sirkku. A Graveside Service was held at the Alto Reste Cemetery, 26575 AB-11, Red Deer County, Alberta on Friday, January 24, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. Family and friends were invited to celebrate Raija’s remarkable life and enduring legacy. In lieu of flowers, if desired, Memorial Donations in Raija’s honor may be made directly to a charity of the donor’s choice, supporting mental health or homelessness initiatives. May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love of her Savior. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

6287 – 67A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER

• Date : 2025-02-05
• Location : (Red Deer) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED (Red Deer/Blackfalds/Eckville) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & (Innisfail/Olds/Didsbury/Sundre) www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com