In loving memory of  Virpi Wirtanen: 1962-2021

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 Virpi Hannele (Vainikka) Wirtanen was born Dec. 3, 1962 in Tampere, Finland, and passed away from cancer on July 5, 2021 in Battle Ground, Washington, surrounded by her loving family and carried by her lifelong Christian faith. She was ready to go, but sad to leave her loved ones behind. 

Her family moved to the United States when she was a teenager and although she lived in this country for the rest of her life, her Finnish roots were always dear. She married Andrew Wirtanen in 1983 and took care of her husband and children with selfless devotion. She was interested in many things, including spending time outdoors, gardening, and reading. She also took the time to delight in each of her grandchildren, as well as spending time with Christian friends and relatives from far and near. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Toivo and Marjatta Vainikka; her father-and mother-in-law, Robert and Ruth Wirtanen; her sister, Anne Thomas; brother-in-law, Keith Abernathy; and one infant grandson. 

Virpi is survived by her beloved husband, Andy, of 38 years; four daughters, Ulla (Todd) Davidson of Vanderhoof, British Columbia; Jaana (Ben) Huumala, Tiina and Eeva of Battle Ground, Washington; 10 sons, Victor, Esa (Andrea), Mika (Kaitlin), Levi (Susanna), Erik, Eino and Alex, of Battle Ground, Washington; Leo (Liila) and Timo, of Kelso, Washington, and Christopher (Kaitlyn), of Longview, Washington. 

Virpi is also survived by seven siblings: Helena Abernathy and Katri (Kent) Witzel, of Battle Ground, Washington; Johanna (Thomas) Anderson, of Fenton, Michigan; Markku (Marja-Leena) Vainikka, of Oulu, Finland; Minna (Leif) Erickson, of Watertown, South Dakota; Maarit Hurkett of Pitstone, England; and Marika (Matthew) Sarkinen of Brush Prairie, Washington; brother-in-law Inigo (Ragnild) Thomas of Bodø, Norway; 27 grandchildren; numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews and special friends; all of whom she loved dearly. 

Funeral services were held on Monday, July 26, 2021, at 11 a.m. at Old Apostolic Lutheran Church of Heisson 27300 NE 182 Ave., Battle Ground, Washington, 98604.