Mary Louise Tiihonen of St. Paul AB, formerly of Red Deer AB, passed away on March 7, 2026, at the age of 94 years.

Louise’s life began in Winfield, AB in a little log cabin.  Her brother Bill arrived eighteen months later and the two were inseparable.  She grew up with five siblings, some of whom were much older, so her nieces and nephews were also her companions.  She spoke often of difficult but rewarding times, where “Life was simpler”.  Her father passed away when she was thirteen, so in her words, “I had to grow up quickly”.

At age seven her family moved to a farm in the Springvale area east of Red Deer.  Later they moved into the city where she attended the Joseph Welch and Red Deer Composite Schools.  Apparently, a young man, Eddie, noticed her in Highschool but she said she just “snubbed” him.  It wasn’t until her early 20’s that they met at a dance that her brother Bill was playing at.  The rest is history.  They were married May 30, 1956.  Their lives together were both adventurous and challenging.  They welcomed a son and daughter, owned a Farm Machinery Business, hiked, camped, travelled, and in later years, ran a fishing lodge in Pinehouse, SK.  Louise was also a member of the L.O.B.A., Ladies Aid, Presbyterian Church and a volunteer at Camp Kannawin.

Louise’s determination and dedication was a driving force: Whether is was throwing the garter snakes back at teenage boys in Junior High, teaching herself how to play the piano, baking eight Flapper Pies for the Harvest Supper, canning, sewing many outfits, or hosting get togethers for family and friends. In her retirement she created hand made cards for every special occasion – each one done uniquely for the individual who was to receive it.  Her heart for others showed through the most in the prayers that she lifted up for them – even at age 94.  Her faith was central to her life and it helped to sustain her through joy and sorrow.  A line from her favorite Hymn reflects this: “Let not your heart be troubled, His tender words I hear; And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubt and fear.  Tho’ by the path He leadeth, but one step I may see: His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me”.

Louise’s love and presence will be missed.  She is survived by her brother-in law Frank Sigurdson: Daughter Jill and her family:  Jessica & Jesse, Anya and Colter Charchun; Elliot and Paige Ziniewicz; Georgia and Cameron Matthew: Son Mark’s family; Bridget, April, Jodi and Tyler.  Louise was predeceased by her husband Eddie Tiihonen; granddaughter Christina Louise Haynes; son Mark Tiihonen; and son-in-law Barry Ziniewicz.

A Graveside service will take place on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 12:30 pm in the Alto Reste Cemetery, 26575 – Highway 11, Red Deer County AB followed by a Celebration of Life at Knox Presbyterian Church, 4718 – 50 St., Red Deer, AB at 2:00 pm.

Condolences to Louise’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Louise Tiihonen” in the subject line.

 

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944

• Date : 2026-03-11
• Location : Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service, Red Deer AB "Locally Owned"