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Many knew Timo for his decades of kindness helping others through his work in hospitals in Thunder Bay and beyond.
Fewer knew he was also a talented, self-taught artist with a lifetime of paintings and sculptures.
We, his children — with the loving support of our mother — are fulfilling his wish by raising funds to host a Celebration of Life and Art Exhibition to share his work, his stories, his love for music, and his adventurous spirit with all who knew and loved him.
Our beloved father, Timo Tapio Koskinen, passed away at the beginning of August. While we arranged a private burial with our immediate family, we now want to plan a proper gathering to celebrate his life and legacy with those who knew and loved him.
Many people knew Timo through his years of dedicated work at hospitals, always helping others with kindness and care. What fewer people knew is that he was also an accomplished, self-taught artist. Over the years, his art has touched many people, finding homes with those who were drawn to his creativity and spirit.
This spring or early summer, around his birthday, we are planning a Celebration of Life and Art Showcase in his honour. His paintings and sculptures will be displayed, his favourite music will play (he sent us daily songs to enjoy), and friends and family will be invited to share in the experience. During the event, we will also share some stories from Timo’s rich and adventurous life — his travels, experiences, and memorable moments — giving everyone a chance to see the full picture of the man they knew, and perhaps discover new sides of him.
This exhibition is especially meaningful because one of Timo’s last wishes was to have his work professionally framed and shown in a proper exhibition. Sadly, we weren’t able to make that happen during his lifetime. Now, we want to honour his wish and celebrate his art with the care, respect, and attention it deserves.
Our dad’s artwork has been a part of our lives and has deeply influenced us creatively. We miss him with all of our hearts and wish he could be here to see his work properly displayed. Attending this exhibition will allow friends, family, and colleagues to see the full depth of his talent and creativity.
Our goal is to make this event feel like him: creative, warm, and full of life. To help make this vision possible, we are raising funds to support:
* Professional framing and display of his artwork . Many of Dad’s large paintings, some created over fifty years ago, need professional framing and care to be displayed as he always hoped they would be.
* Venue costs suitable for showcasing his paintings and sculptures
* Refreshments, pulla (some of his favourite Finnish pastries)
* Technical setup for music, lighting, and equipment
We also hope to make some of Timo’s artwork available for purchase to those who feel a special connection to his pieces, so his art can continue to be appreciated and loved.
This campaign is being run by our family — the four children of Timo: Tanya, Crystal, Jennifer, and Jason, with the loving support of our mother Susan.
By contributing, you are helping us honour our father’s creativity and spirit, and share his art and stories with everyone who loved him, knew him, or is inspired by his life, as we are.
We are deeply grateful for your support, whether through a donation or by sharing this page with others who knew or admired Timo.
With love and gratitude,
The Koskinen Family
Organizer
