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HELEN KAARINA DODA
December 22, 1928 to August 8, 2021
Helen Kaarina Doda (nee Jokinen) lived a full life. She graced this earth, for 92 years, with Fashion; with Dance; with Poetry; with SISU. It is with sadness we announce her death. Helen will be missed. Born in Sault Ste Marie to Jenny and Urho Jokinen, Helen spent her first 10 years on her Grandfather Nestor’s farm in Wabos, Ontario. An original Finnish pioneer to Canada. It was here Helen developed her love of fishing and hunting. Helen married Gordon Stewart in 1946 and had a son, Brian. In 1953 - 1963 Helen married Len Ciaschini, a local artist and Big Band Leader of Len Ciaschini & The Continentals. They had two sons, Rob (Holly) and Randy (Wendy). Helen owned and operated, Helena’s, a Fashion store on Queen St. In the Soo. In 1964 - 1992 Helen married Casey Doda and became Step Mother to Donna, Sharon (Gerry) and Casey (predeceased). With Casey, Helen renewed her love of the outdoors and refined her skills as a great Fisherwoman and hunter - a mother who dropped her kids off at school - after the morning hunt. She was known for getting the biggest Moose in town, while putting on lipstick. In 1998, living in Bruce Mines, Helen married Ian Lockton. They spent their years dancing at the Legion; road tripping to Florida; and, frequenting Finn Fest events throughout Ontario. In her 80’s, Helen modelled for a women’s boutique in Burlington and studied Gemology. Helen’s love of Lake Huron brought her to Balm Beach, where she lived out her final days with Family, passing away at home. Helen loved her grandchildren Connor, Jack, Raven, Hilary and Jonathan. Step Grandmother to Erin and Jodi. Great Grandmother to three. As per Helen’s wishes cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral services. Memorial donations can be made in Helen’s memory (payable by cheque or online) to The Ontario Finnish Rest Home Foundation. “Do not think of me as ‘DEAD’ — I have a gift card in my pocket and I have gone shopping!” - Helen Please Remember Her!