Florence Elizabeth Huttala aged 100 years of Moose Jaw, SK, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 10th, 2023 at Chateau St. Micheal, the place she called home since 2020.
Florence was born February 6th, 1923 in Laurencekirk, Scotland to Alice and Cummin Mathieson. She was one of seven children. At the age of six she immigrated with her family to Rockglen, SK eventually settling and building her storied life in Moose Jaw, SK.
Florence loved reminiscing and sharing stories of her time in the Royal Canadian Air Force where she served as a Postal Clerk through WWII, 1942-45, posted at both Patricia Bay, BC and Portage la Prairie, MB. Although that period quickly faded to memory, Florence remained connected to this chapter of her life, attending various RCAF reunions that took her coast to coast.
Following her years of active service and return to Moose Jaw, Florence met and married Harry Huttala on November 10th, 1948. Together they raised their 3 wonderful daughters. Florence not only role modelled devotion to family but provided her girls an example of independence and perseverance, burning the candle at both ends as mother and career woman. After 28 years of service as a Nurses Aid, Florence retired at age 65 from Providence Hospital and celebrated herself with a trip to Hawaii.
“Flo’s place” on Normandy Drive was a hub for many a card game, afternoon tea, or holiday gathering. It was also at this home she fostered her love of animals, flowers and gardening. Florence’s yard was a source of joy, pride, and therapy. Her flower garden was reflective of her ability to plant hope and bury hardships. She tended to her family with the same tender care and attention.
Florence lived out her senior years at Victoria Towers, living independently into her late 90’s. Florence made the most of living in close proximity to Crescent Park, taking in many band festivals and walks through the flower gardens.
Dancing and humming through life’s peaks and valleys for 100 years, with grace and dignity. Stronger—yet softer, more storied, and sharper with each year. Florence was a loving, devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was fiercely protective of her family. In Florence’s eyes her grandchildren, in particular, could do no wrong and were a source of pride.
After a century of growing family, strength through hardship, love, and wisdom, Florence’s advice was surprisingly simple: “Just enjoy life, enjoy each other”.
She was predeceased by her parents, Alice and Cummin Mathieson; spouse, Harry Huttala; siblings: Margaret (Mike) Kopko, Sandy (Shirley) Mathieson, Vi (Gus) Stulberg, and James Mathieson; brother-in-law, Frank Jepps; daughter-in-law, Joan Sample; niece, Sandy Lee Frasier; and nephews, James Jr. and Scott Mathieson. Florence is survived and lovingly remembered by her sisters: Alice Jepps and Jean (Bob) Amon; daughters: Lorraine (David) Hulse, Louise Huttala, and Leona (Russ) Froehlich; grandchildren: Travis, Trinda, Cale (Gena) Hulse; Jason (Tinika) Froehlich and Gillian (Neal) Stokes; sixteen great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In keeping with Florence’s wishes, a Private Family Service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Florence’s name may be made to the Saskatchewan Legion Poppy Fund, visit sasklegion.ca for more details. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Michelle Ellis, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com
