Susan Kathleen Kahtava

Susan Kathleen Kahtava, 74, of Virginia, Minn., sadly left us on April 8, 2024.

Susan was a lifelong resident of Virginia, Minn., where she was known for her love of baking and as a matriarch of Irma's Finland House where she was the Store Manager, buyer, and in charge of the bridal registry department for over 35 years. Susan was a proud member of the Soroptimist International Club where she enjoyed sharing her baking talents for many of their fundraisers. Susan's talent and mastery of cake decorating brought great memories for many during the most special time of their lives. She enjoyed traveling where she was able to visit Finland and experience the food and culture of her home country. Susan was the most gracious host and would entertain family and friends, and trying new dishes from her travel, and her love of cookbooks. Susan was a devoted Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and Aunt. She was known for helping so many people. She enjoyed spending time with her devoted husband Roger and her dog Abby at their land in Pike Sandy Township or cooking amazing items from their fresh fruits and herb garden.

Susan is survived by her husband, Roger Kahtava; daughters, Sheila (Christopher) Flaschberger, Heather (Trenton) Bean; stepchildren: Joey (Jason) Ruotsalainen, Pamela (Gene) Kacer, Paul Kahtava, and Brandie (Mike Woods) Kahtava; grandchildren, Tyler, Brady, and Baiden Bean; step grandchildren: Landan, Logan, and Levi Ruotsalainen, Tyler and Jacob Kacer, and Jon and Hannah Wood. Siblings: Vernon (LeAnna) Laine Jr, Terrance (Debbie) Laine, Pamela (Jeremy) Hoover; and extended family, Paul Jacka, David Jacka, and Brian (Anita) Maki. Loving mention to her special friend and neighbor, Ginger Burt; beloved dog, Abby; and many loving nieces and nephews. Special thanks to the kind and caring team from Essentia Hospice.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Valerae and Vernon Laine Sr; Wilford "Buff" Jacka; and extended family, Joan Sheehy.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Susan's legacy on May 17 at 11 a.m. at Holy Spirit Church followed by lunch in the Holy Spirit Social Hall. In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Virginia Soroptimist International Club of Virginia, MN.

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