MINOT – Reta E. Piirainen moved on to heaven early Thursday morning, May 12, surrounded by her family following a courageous battle with cancer.

She was born in Lewiston, Aug. 29, 1931, one of 10 children to Fabiola and Carl Damon. She attended Lewiston and Auburn schools and later returned to receive her GED while raising four children, filling them with pride.

Later, she worked for DHS as a clerical manager for 26 years, earning respect and lasting friendships from co-workers who continued to visit her in her last days.

She married Edwin Piirainen on July 2, 1974, sharing 30 happy years until his passing on March 1, 2004.

Many people were tenderly touched by her, including her children and their spouses, Susan, and Norman Moore of Minot, Louise and Steve Anderson of Mechanic Falls, Paul and Elva Harrison of Poland, Bonnie and Jeffrey Gould of Lewiston, along with Reta’s surviving stepchildren, Eddie and Beth Piirainen, Troy and Ann Piirainen, and Steve Piirainen. Also included in those who will miss her dearly are her 11 grandchildren, 11 step-grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, all of whom called her Nana.

She is survived by three brothers and four sisters.

She was predeceased by two sisters whom all she loved dearly.

A special heartfelt thanks goes out to the hospice nurse, Louise Gary.

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