Edna Elfina Kangas

Edna Elfina Kangas was the youngest of 4 - two brothers and one sister born to Frank and Mary Kivela. Edna was born and raised on a farm in the New Finland district (close to Whitewood) and went to DeerWood school just a quarter mile away. The close proximity to the school made it possible for the teacher to stay with her family from time to time.  Edna attended business college in Brandon MB, and over the years enjoyed working in different office settings in Ontario and Saskatchewan - banks, medical clinics and federal and municipal government offices until her retirement.  She loved putting things in order.

Edna married Ray Kangas whom she grew up with in the district - they had gone separate ways after school but reconnected in Thunder Bay.  Ray had joined the Air Force by then.

 
Judy was born shortly before Ray was posted to Germany and they lived there for a few years before returning to Ottawa. They travelled extensively while living in Germany and made lasting friendships.  After Ray's early retirement the family moved back to Edna’s parents farm in SK where they farmed for many years.

 
Ray passed away in 1972 and Edna moved into Whitewood and never remarried. She worked in the town office. Edna loved to travel and took many bus tours. Edna moved from Whitewood to Esterhazy to babysit Judy’s kids... A very generous and awesome act.  She always did a lot of handiwork- crocheting, knitting, quilting and dabbled in painting. Edna did crossword puzzles since a young girl living on the farm.  

Edna lived in Esterhazy for the past 30 plus years and was a part of the Lutheran Church, the women's knitting group and The Happy Gang women's exercise group.

Edna is survived by her daughter Judy Parker, granddaughter Rebecca (Garrett) Anderson, grandson Patrick Parker and four great grandchildren. Edna was predeceased by her husband Ray, grandson Robert Parker, sister Nellie Laakso, brothers; Edwin Kivela and Arthur Kivela.