Thomas (Tom) Eric Kesanen

It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Tom Kesanen on Wednesday, September 10th at the age of 67.

Tom is survived by the love of his life, his devoted wife Diane, and his special, beloved fur baby, Sisu. Sisu stuck close to Tom and followed him around wherever he went. So much that Tom nicknamed him "Velcro Boy". He is also survived by his aunt, uncle and cousin in Canada and several cousins in Finland, as well as many friends. Tom is lovingly remembered by Diane's extended family. He was predeceased by his parents Eric and Paula.

Tom was a devoted Jehovah’s Witness. His faith was very important to him and he had many wonderful “brothers” and “sisters” at the Kingdom Hall that will surely miss him.

Tom was born in Port Arthur, Ontario. In the late 90’s there was not much work for him in Ontario, so he ventured west to Manitoba. His first job in Manitoba was working with his dad Eric, building a part of the Health Sciences Centre.

Diane was introduced to Tom by her aunt Barbara and her husband Ron, who had invited them over for supper one night. Their first date was at the Bridge Drive-in in Winnipeg. Tom and Diane married on April 21, 2007, enjoying a loving marriage of 18 years. Tom was an avid fisherman and fished the lakes in and around Thunder Bay. He loved fishing so much that one of the first gifts he gave Diane was a fishing rod.

Tom was a devoted and loving husband. He never demanded attention nor talked about himself, as his deeds and actions spoke for him. A man who cared deeply for people and wanted to help wherever he could. He had a great sense of humour, too, as he would joke and say things like “his body was wearing out, but his brain was just like new – never been used”. He was also an awesome cook. His cooking skills were to be commended, specializing in delicious breakfasts and Finnish dishes.

Tom was a master carpenter who designed and built the timber frame for his and Diane's beautiful home in Pinawa. His carpentry skills were numerous and he possessed a strong work ethic. Tom covered everything from building his own home, working various building projects, and creating exquisite wood carvings of animals. He loved to work with and carve wood and actually carved out a life-size bird cage with a woodpecker inside. His talent and attention to detail lent himself to lining the bottom of the bird cage with wood chips, so it looked like the woodpecker chipped out it's own cage.

A special and sincere thanks to everyone who helped in our time of need. Cremation has taken place. No formal service will be held and donations in Tom’s memory made may be made to a charity of own’s choice.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com