Eva Vanscoy

Eva was born in Finland on December 22, 1945. In 1952, during challenging circumstances, Eva immigrated to Canada with her parents, Anna and Mauri Jalava, and her sister, Rina (Bryce).

The family first resided in Toronto and later in Parry Sound, Ontario, and also spent several years living in Mexico.

Eva earned her teaching degree, beginning what would become a lifelong passion for teaching and education. She taught in Orillia for a number of years, where her dedication to her students and belief in the importance of learning quickly became evident. Teaching was never just a career for Eva—it was her calling, and she took great pride in helping others learn and succeed.

Eva’s love for her family was deep and unwavering. She shared a very special bond with her daughter, Laura, and they spent a great deal of time together throughout their lives. She also cherished her cousins, nieces, and nephews, who were very dear to her heart. In her final days, Eva was comforted by Kenny, who was by her side, providing love and support. Eva also had a love for tea parties, and one of her fondest memories was a tea party held in her backyard, surrounded by friends and family.

In 1981, Eva, her husband Larry, and their daughter Laura moved to Baker Lake, Northwest Territories. Eva served as Vice-Principal there and taught for at least 20 years. She was deeply committed to education in the North, always striving to support her students, colleagues, and community. The family later returned to Orillia, where Eva continued teaching for a few more years.

In 1996, Eva moved to Rossburn, Manitoba, with Larry joining her later. She taught at Waywayseecappo School for several years and later became involved in the integration program. Eva also worked in the Adult Education Program and taught Driver’s Education. Her enthusiasm for learning extended beyond the classroom, and she embraced every opportunity to educate people of all ages. She was, to say the least, a very busy and dedicated educator.

Eva was an active member of the Rossburn Health Auxiliary for many years, giving her time generously to support her community.

Eva’s faith was an important part of her life and guided the way she lived each day. She had a deep love for God and quietly lived out her faith through kindness, compassion, and service to others. Eva believed in helping those around her and treated everyone with patience and understanding. Her faith gave her strength during life’s challenges, and she faced both joy and hardship with grace, gratitude, and unwavering trust.

Eva and Larry remarried in August 2006. In 2012, Eva suffered a stroke that left her left side immobilized. She spent several months in hospital, and upon returning home, Larry lovingly cared for her until his passing in 2017.

With the help of home care, neighbours, and friends, Eva was able to remain in her home and care for herself. She could often be seen scooting around in her chair, going wherever she needed to be. She eagerly awaited the end of winter so she could enjoy being outdoors and moving about more freely. Eva loved participating in activities at the Drop-In Centre, and the highlight of her week was Thursday coffee with fellow residents at Lions Manor.

To all who knew her, Eva was kind, compassionate, and deeply caring. She never complained and never had a bad word to say about anyone. Even on difficult days, she would simply say she was fine.

In June 2025, Eva moved to Fairview Personal Care Home in Brandon. She enjoyed her time there until her passing on December 25, 2025.

Eva was predeceased by her parents, Anna and Mauri Jalava; her sister Rina; her husband Larry; and her daughter Laura.

Eva’s life teaches us so much. She was self-sacrificing, resilient, and always positive. Her love for teaching, education, faith, family, and simple joys like tea parties touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed by her nieces and cousins, and her memory will be forever cherished. The world would be a much better place with more people like Eva. She will be greatly missed and forever held in our hearts.