Katriina Raita Vaisanen

In Loving Memory of
Katriina Raita Vaisanen

August 16, 1948 – January 24, 2026

With deep sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Katriina Raita Vaisanen, who left this world on Saturday, January 24th, 2026, at 7:15 PM, at the age of 77, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born in Finland on August 16, 1948, Katriina carried with her the strength, warmth, and quiet resilience of her heritage throughout her life.

She was the beloved wife—“Kulta”—of Pertti Kalevi Vaisanen, with whom she shared a lifetime of devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership. Together they built a beautiful family, the legacy she cherished most.

Katriina was the loving mother of four children:

Kalle (Jaime) Vaisanen

Kristiina (Jason) Vaisanen‑Burk

Karolynn Vaisanen

Peter (Kim) Vaisanen

She was a proud and adoring grandmother “Mummi” to:

Kody (Jessica) Vaisanen

Aliina (John) Vaisanen‑Rhodes

Maia Vaisanen

Emma Vaisanen

Alyssa Vaisanen

Taylor Burk (step‑grandson)

She was a joyful great‑grandmother “Great Mummi” to:

Riley Vaisanen

Lawson Vaisanen

Scottie‑Rose Vaisanen

Ian Rhodes

Katriina was also the cherished sister of Pertti (Shelley) Hannikainen, and a loving aunt to:

Peter (Jenn) Hannikainen & Family

Mike (Erin) Hannikainen & Family

Anita (Sam) Coccari & Family

Her circle of love extended far beyond family. Katriina treasured her lifelong friendships with Bev & Nev, Kathy & Sam, Peter & Wanda, and Tony & Irene, among many others who held a special place in her heart. Their companionship, laughter, and unwavering support enriched her life in countless ways.

A Life of Grace and Strength

To her family, Katriina was everything—our foundation, our soft place to land, and a quiet but unshakeable force. She taught us to be kind, to stand up for what we believe in, and to never give up. Her humour, warmth, and ability to make anyone feel welcome made the world brighter for all who knew her.

She lived with a gentle grace that touched every part of her life.

She danced with joy that lit up any room.

She nurtured gardens with the same tenderness she gave her family.

And she found her truest peace at Lake Catchacoma, where she first met Pertti and where the story of our family truly began.

Watching dementia slowly take her from us was heartbreaking—a long, quiet grief that came in waves. Yet even as the illness dimmed parts of her memory, her essence remained: her kindness, her humour, her love. Knowing she is now free from suffering brings comfort, even as our hearts ache.

Her legacy lives on in every story we share, every lesson she taught, and every act of kindness we pass forward.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Katriina’s life will be held on:

Sunday, February 8th

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Torchbearer Taproom https://torchbearertaproom.com/

785 Taunton Rd. E., Unit #2

Oshawa, Ontario

In honour of her favourite colour, guests are invited to wear something lilac or a yellow rose.

Those who wish to speak or share a memory will have the opportunity to do so.

Forever in Our Hearts

Rest peacefully, Mom.

Keep dancing.

Keep gardening in the light.

Keep shining your love down on us.

You are irreplaceable.💜💛❤️