Obituary of Tapio Niilo Keskitalo

January 1, 1937 – Armassaari, Finland

January 27, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Tapio Niilo Keskitalo, of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the age of 87 years.

Tapio was born in Armassaari, Finland, on January 11, 1937. At a young age, Tapio honourably served Finland in its army, demonstrating early his love and dedication to his country. After his service, he began his long-standing career in the paper mill industry as a machine operator.

Tapio, his wife, and their two children immigrated to The Pas, Manitoba in November of 1970 to assist with the start-up of the town’s paper mill. Tapio progressed through supervisory positions and finished his career as a Senior Start-up Specialist. He travelled the world leading start-ups for many large paper mill conglomerates.

Tapio will be most remembered for his patriotic attachment to his homeland, Finland. You would often see him proudly showcasing his Finnish hats, shirts, pins, pens; anything with the Finnish flag.

Besides his loving wife Kaarina of 64 years, Tapio is survived by his daughter Soile Soikkeli (Kari) of Calgary, AB; grandson Michael Soikkeli (Alana Lyons) of Victoria, BC; three granddaughters Vanessa Keskitalo (Ken Welsh), of Calgary, AB, Erika Keskitalo,  of Calgary, AB, Amanda Paterson (Ed); great-grandchildren Eddie and Finnley Paterson, of Langdon, AB. Tapio is remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, spanning across Calgary, Red Deer, The Pas, Finland, Sweden, and worldwide.

Tapio was predeceased by son Pekka Keskitalo, parents Eelis and Hilda Keskitalo, and seven siblings.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Tapio’s family here.

In living memory of Tapio Niilo Keskitalo, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Eastside, 5388 Memorial Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2A 3V9, Telephone: 403-248-8585.