In Memory of Ella Korjus
September 8, 1932 - March 8, 2023

It is with profound sadness that the family of Ella Korjus (nee Oad) announce her peaceful passing on March 8, 2023 at the age of 90 years. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Eha (late Markus), Mark, and Eric (Connie). Her sisters Alma and Maimu. Her grandchildren, Jaan (Mai-Liis), Laas (Kate), Leikki (Attila), Teija, Oliver and Austin. Her great-grandchildren Heikki, Mia-Liina, Viive, Raili, Leo, Helve, Hendrik, Eliise, Raivo, Ella, Talvi and Maila. As well as numerous relatives and friends.

Ella was predeceased by her loving husband of 51 Years, Alfred; daughter Tiina, brother August and parents Marta and Daniel.

Ella was born on September 8, 1932 to Marta and Daniel Oad in Siilu talu, in Linaküla on a small island in Estonia called Kihnu. Due to the increasing threat of the Russian army, 12-year old Ella was forced to leave her home in a boat with her mother and younger sister to meet her father and older brother both waiting in Sweden. At this time, she was sick with pneumonia and her parents feared the worst. They finally reached Sweden where the family lived for the next 6 years. Ella lived her teenage years in Sweden learning the language, joining girl guides, saving all her money to have ice-cream once a month and tasting a banana for the first time. When Ella was 18 - years old, her father announced the family would be moving to Canada.

It was in Canada where she met her husband Alfred Korjus at an Estonian dance. She was drawn to how well he could dance. Ella and Alfred married on October 3, 1953.

Ella enjoyed summers at the cottage in Orillia with her family, making sure everyone had enough to eat and ensuring her family’s happiness. Ella tried to keep her Estonian heritage and language alive. She was very proud that her children and grandchildren not only spoke Estonian but took part in the Estonian community.

Funeral service will be on Friday March 17, 2023. Visitation with family - 1:00-2:00, Service 2:00-3:00 in the York Cemetery Chapel, burial, followed by a wake in the reception room.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to KESKUS international Estonian Centre or Jõekääru Estonian Children’s camp.

Funeral Location:
York Cemetery & Funeral Centre
160 Beecroft Road
North York, ON