Obituary of Lauri Kangas
LAURI HENDERICK KANGAS
January 25, 1932 – March 29, 2023
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Lauri Kangas, 91, in Toronto, on March 29th. Lauri was the beloved husband of Joan Isobel (nee McNamara), father to Karen, Martti, Lisa, Wendy, Daniel and Perry, a popular father-in-law, grandfather to 16 and great-grandfather to two.
A serial entrepreneur and gifted salesman, Lauri explored many industries and created numerous businesses. Real estate broker and developer, jewellery and souvenir manufacturer-distributor and lumberman were just a few of his roles. In all these endeavours, he always sought to involve his kids; we all grew up to run our own businesses, just like Dad. Above all else, he was devoted to his large, ever-growing flock.
He grew up an only child in northern Ontario but moved south to attend Waterloo Lutheran University (now Laurier). During those years he met the love of his life; Joan and Lauri were married in 1955. Shortly thereafter they began the family business, issuing forth six children between 1956 - 1963. Forever drawing comparisons to the Brady Bunch, our time together as a nuclear family was filled with activity, companionship and trips. Hawaii, Florida and both coasts of Canada were among the destinations. As his own children matured and had their own families, Dad was very involved with all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He had the gift of making each of them feel both part of the clan and unique. Active in the Finnish-Canadian community, he spent his final days at the Suomi Koti retirement home in Toronto. The world is a sadder and lonelier place without him.
Lauri’s ashes will be buried alongside his beloved parents, Lempi and Eino Kangas at the York Cemetery in Toronto. A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, April 8, 2023, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m., at Suomi Koti, 795 Eglinton Avenue East.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the CNIB.
Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.
© 2023 Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel Limited. All Rights Reserved.
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