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Henry Veikko Kettunen, 78, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on November 27th, 2025. Henry was born on August 11th, 1947, in Finland, to Ahti & Anna (Elina) Kettunen. Henry was raised in downtown Toronto and at the family cottage just outside of Parry Sound where his most cherished memories were made with family and friends.
Henry is survived by his devoted wife, Karen, with whom he shared 35 wonderful years of love and partnership. He leaves behind his children, Mark Kettunen (Lorraine), Katelynn Mahoney (Dylan), and Lindsay Lunau (Cameron), who will forever cherish his guidance, humour, and unwavering support. Henry was a deeply proud grandfather to Caitlin, Damian, Maya, Josephine, and Callum, and a delighted great-grandfather to Raven. He will also be dearly missed by his sister, Arja Rasanen (Raimo). Henry is predeceased by his loving parents, Ahti and Elina, and by his siblings, Kaarina Kettunen (Bob Parkinson) and Lauri Kettunen (Tiina Vallik), who he now joins in peaceful rest.
Henry built a full and joyful life grounded in hard work, kindness, and a warm, friendly nature that made everyone feel welcome in his presence. For over 50 years, Henry dedicated his life to the insurance industry. He began his career with Allstate before ultimately becoming an independent broker, where he built lasting relationships and earned the respect of clients and colleagues alike.
Outside of work, Henry embraced the things that made him happiest—golfing, enjoying time with friends, indulging in a good drink, and playing a competitive game of cards. His warmth, subtle humor, and easygoing presence made him someone others naturally gravitated toward. Henry’s presence, generosity, and love will be deeply missed, but his memory will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew him.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Molto-Valiente, Henry’s oncologist in Peterborough, as well as Dr. Blake and the entire palliative care team, whose compassion, support, and dedication brought comfort and dignity throughout his final months.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Highland Park Funeral Centre, 2510 Bensfort Road, Peterborough on Sunday, December 7th at 1pm, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honour Henry’s remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the PRHC Foundation for Cancer Care.
PRHC Cancer Care Clinic
1 Hospital Drive, Peterborough ON
Web: https://prhcfoundation.ca/cancer-care/