We are deeply saddened by the passing of Johannes Vihma who left this world peacefully on January 20, 2017 shortly following his 96th birthday in December.
His passing is mourned by his beloved wife Frieda Vihma, his two daughters and their spouses - Merike and David LeFeaver; Liina and Mark Peacock. He was also a beloved "Papa" to his grand children - Christopher LeFeaver and his wife Erin, Kaitlyn LeFeaver, Desmond Peacock and his wife Holly, Derek Peacock and his great grand-son Wyatt Peacock.
Johannes was born in Viljandi, Estonia in 1920 where he resided with his loving family until WWII disrupted his peaceful life. He emigrated to Canada in 1950 with his wife to build a new life.
Together with other Estonian partners, he built a small business - Artistic Woodwork Co. Limited. He was the Master Designer with 42 design patents in his name that helped the company grow into one of the largest enterprises in its field, in North America. His exceptional picture frames can be seen in homes, Art Galleries and Museums around the world.
Johannes was also a highly esteemed member of the Estonian Community who contributed generously and passionately to Estonian cultural institutions locally, nationally and internationally.
He was a founding member of multiple Estonian Associations, an organizer of major Estonian cultural events, an editor of Estonian publications and an author. For his devoted committment, he had received many awards, certificate of Merit and Honour and letters of acknowledgement.
He was highly regarded and respected in his community by friends,and colleagues and deeply valued and loved by his family for his kindness, generosity, his soft-spoken manner, his empathy, his integrity and his rich capacity to love.