It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Jorma Ikkala, on April 8, 2024 at Mill Creek Care Centre in Barrie, with family by his side.
Jorma is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Tammy MacLeod (Neil) and Jennifer Ikkala, sister Anneli Ikkala (Alves Agostino), half-brother Kevin Granroos and treasured grandchildren, Mitchell MacLeod and Sarah MacLeod. Predeceased by his beloved wife Melody in 2011, his father Oiva Ikkala, mother Bertta Granroos, brother Juhani Ikkala and sister Aune McKinnon.
Born in Alavus, Finland, Jorma’s family immigrated to Geraldton, ON in 1957. He married Melody in 1963 and soon moved to Manitouwadge in 1965, where they raised their family. Jorma was employed by Noranda Mines as a long-hole driller until 1995. He was known to his fellow co-workers as Ken. Being a well-respected employee, his portrait resided beside the mine manager’s office door for many years.
Throughout his life, Jorma was an energetic, happy, and kind hearted man who was always willing to help anyone in need. Due to his great love for the outdoors, Jorma was very active during all seasons. He enjoyed playing golf, hiking, cycling, skiing, fishing and dancing as well as volunteering at the Kiwissa Ski Club with grooming and trail maintenance. Jorma also loved music, so when he and Melody relocated to Sault Ste. Marie, they became very involved with square dancing. They had a large circle of friends in both Manitouwadge and the Sault. Melody and Jorma experienced many wonderful vacations together, travelling in North America, the Caribbean and Europe, including a family reunion in Finland in 2007. After moving to Barrie in 2015 to be closer to his children and grandchildren, he continued to enjoy all of his favourite activities for several years.
Jorma will be fondly remembered by his many friends and family.
A special thank you to all the caring staff at Mill Creek Care Centre who were so kind to Jorma.
As per Jorma’s wishes, he will be reunited with Melody at Greenwood Cemetery, Sault Ste. Marie, where a private internment will take place.
Condolences and memories may be shared through www.peacefultransition.ca
Peaceful Transition Simcoe
Ruby Cullen
Posted on: Friday, April 19, 2024To Jorma’s family and friends.
Sincere condolences on the passing of Jorma. A true gentleman in every sense of the word. Salt of the earth. He will never be forgotten by those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
Ruby Cullen and Erle Newstead
Bruce Mines, Ontario
Betty Anne Nurse (Nee: Vaudrin)
Posted on: Thursday, April 25, 2024Sincere condolences to Jorma’s family. The Vaudrin family got to know Jorma when living and growing up in Geraldton. I remember Jorma’s beautiful smile and as a friendly guy with a love for the outdoors. He was a devoted husband, father and friend. He will be missed by many. My prayers are for his family today and for Jorma, who is now at peace with our Lord.