Obituary of Lilian Rannala

Lilian passed away peacefully at the Ehatare Retirement and Nursing Home in Scarborough on April 30, 2021. A loving wife, mother and grandmother, Lilian was predeceased by her brothers Allan and Toomas, son Ivo, niece Eve and her husband of 50 years, Reinhold. She leaves behind her son Arvo, daughter-in-law Emma, former daughter-in-law Kathy, grandchildren Ivar, Erik, Viveka and Sabrina as well as grand-nephew Markus.

Lilian was born in Laeva, Estonia. She grew up on the family farm and attended the local elementary school before attending high-school in the city of Tartu. She was sent to Germany during the war and in 1947, immigrated to the east coast of Canada. A move to Toronto followed in 1950 to join the many other displaced Estonians and where she met her future husband, Reinhold.

Lilian had a diverse career, starting as a domestic in Fredericton and in Toronto, a seamstress, a bookkeeper and then a long career at Bell Telephone. She was active in the Toronto Estonian community and passions included rhythmic gymnastics, folk dancing, singing, baking and sewing. She volunteered for the Estonian Women’s Association which focused on operating an affordable children’s summer camp. With her skills as a seamstress, she also clothed several generations of young Estonians with folk dancing outfits as well as confirmation and wedding dresses.  

Her life was well lived, and while her family will be forever grateful for the memories and legacy that she leaves behind, her presence will always be missed.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Ehatare Retirement and Nursing Home for the wonderful care provided to Lilian during her stay, especially over her last few months. 

A private family service will be taking place where Lilian will be reunited with her husband in Mount Pleasant Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers and if you wish to make a donation in Lilian’s memory, please consider the Canadian Cancer Society https://www.cancer.ca or the Estonian Foundation of Canada https://estonianfoundation.ca  Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

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