Merja Anitta Kokko

Peacefully on July 19, 2010, at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Merja (Marja) Kokko of Portage la Prairie passed away at the age of 54.

Left to cherish Merja’s memories are her loving family from Winnipeg, parents Raili and Olavi, sisters Liisa (Neil) and Tiina (Chris), niece Pauliina and nephews Patrick, Dechlan and Ethan; numerous relatives and family friends; and the many staff and residents from Manitoba Developmental Centre in Portage la Prairie.

Merja was born April 1, 1956 in Joensuu, Finland, immigrated to Canada with her parents in 1958 and has spent over 40 years at MDC. Merja’s fun personality will be missed by many; we can take comfort in all the wonderful memories of special times shared with her.

Viewing will take place July 26, 2010 at 1:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1:30 p.m. in Aspen Worship Centre at MDC with Chaplain Siemens officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Gardens.

If so desired, donations may be made to the Residents Benefit Fund, C/O Manitoba Developmental Centre, P.O. Box 1190, Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 3C6. '

The family wishes to thank the many staff at MDC who have cared so lovingly for Merja over the years and were part of her family. Merja, we have you in our hearts. We love you.

Condolences may be sent to the family c/o Omega Funeral Home, 83 Royal Road South, Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, R1N 1T8, 1-800-303-4621 or friends may leave a message of sympathy on our web site www.omegafuneralhome.com “Dedicated to those we serve”.