It is with great sadness that the family of Aila Tuulikki Riikonen announces her passing on January 6, 2026, at Health Sciences North, after a brief illness. She was 93.
Born in Oulu, Finland, Aila immigrated to Canada with her husband, Esko, and their two young children in 1960. They settled in Sudbury, whose northern climate and landscape reminded them of home. Their third child was born in Canada.
Aila was known for her pulla, knitting, gardening and love of reading.
She is predeceased by her beloved husband Esko, her parents Sulo and Elsa (née Henell), and her siblings Aslak, Lahja, Sulo, Taino, Veikko, Helinä, Esko and Raili and great granddaughter Maila. Aila is survived by her children, Merja, Risto (Geralynn) and Kathy Higgins (Mark); her grandchildren Jennifer, Stephen (Marcie), Declan, and Finn and; brother Osmo and many nieces and nephews in Finland.
The family thanks the doctors, nurses and staff of the North Tower, fourth floor, at Health Sciences North for their care, kindness and support.
A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the HSN Foundation in Aila’s memory.
Arrangements entrusted to the Jackson & Barnard Funeral Home. For donations or messages of condolence, www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com