Mr. Jorma Jack Lellava aged 82 years, known to many as Jake, passed away peacefully at his Thunder Bay home on July 21, 2010, surrounded by loving family.

Jorma was born in Port Arthur on April 8, 1928. He spent his early childhood in Nipigon, starting school speaking only Finnish. He then moved to Fort William, graduating as class valedictorian at Selkirk Vocational Highschool. Jake had a passion for his work as a Master Electrician, beginning his career as an apprentice in Fort William. Jake solved many electrical challenges, including the cause of a buzzing light fixture at a local shoe store. To the owner’s surprise, the bill received said “No Charge”; Jake was too embarrassed to explain that he had discovered a horsefly buzzing in a nearby shoebox.  As a member of the IBEW Electrical Union for 62 years, Jake was well respected and mentored many apprentices. His work took him near and far – from Uranium City to many Northwestern Ontario towns. It was in Dryden that he met the love of his life, Nellie Woitowicz. She asked him for a ride to the Saturday night Wabigoon dance. They were married on July 23, 1954 and were blessed with two daughters. Their dance lasted 56 wonderful years. Happy Anniversary Jorma and Nellie.

Jake was a gentle, humorous  man who loved his home as it held everything he cherished:  his three girls, his music and his cat Jakee. He taught us, his family, many lessons in life, particularly the importance of being kind to one another.  Jake was the much loved husband, father and forever friend of wife Nellie and children Valerie and Janet (Steve). He was predeceased by his mother Lylli (Puiras)and father George.

A celebration of Jorma’s life was held in Thunder Bay at the P.A. Prosvita, 540 High Street from 1pm to 4 pm on Tuesday, July 27, the place where he met with many union retirees in recent years. Prior to this, a private service will be officiated by Pastor Jari Lahtinen. In Dryden, a gathering of relatives and friends will take place on the August long weekend.

If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jorma’s memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Love you much, Love you more.

On-Line Condolences may be offered at

www.harbourviewfuneral.ca