December 27, 1947 - January 29, 2024
Born in Karstula, Finland, in 1947 to Matti and Taina Vuorela (nee Niskala), the family came to Canada in 1960, settling in Sault Ste. Marie Ontario. Married Rhonda Lee Spizawka in 1975. The couple lived in Ottawa for a time before coming north to Pine Point Northwest Territories in 1980.
An Architectural Technologist and Project Officer, Seppo's work on buildings sent him across the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Seppo loved the north's vast array of interesting people, places and resources, and his collected memories from these powered the equally vast array of stories and anecdotes that he loved to tell.
Seppo's particular sense of humor and perspective captivated many over the years, and throughout his life he was known as a generous person who would do what he could to help others and encourage those having a difficult time to laugh. Many of his stories were self-depreciating for the sake of humor, but he never failed to speak well of those with whom he shared his adventures. From bailing his way back from the East Arm, to flying snowmobile disasters, and near accidental arson of a line shack on a hunting trip, words about the friends he made were filled with joy and respect.
In Seppo's later years he stubbornly and bravely fought a long battle with Vascular Dementia; his tenacity and faith carrying him without complaint until the end. He often spoke to his family of his appreciation for the many health care professionals who selflessly provided so much help to him along the way - adding each to his collection of story material as he went.
Yellowknife seems quieter for the lack of his stories and a little duller for not seeing him and his trademark hat making their rounds in the downtown core. From Rankin Inlet to the Red Apple, Seppo and his stories will be missed.
Seppo is predeceased by his parents and wife. He is survived by his daughter Arleen (Ben).
A memorial service for Seppo will be held at 2:00 PM on April 27 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses (100 Niven Gate) in Yellowknife.
Service Details
2:00 PM