Raita Kyllikki Karpa, passed away on Saturday, September 20, 2014 in Rexburg, Idaho. She was 81. She was born May 11, 1933 in Juuka, Finland.

Raita immigrated to the United States of America when she was sixteen. She met and married Paul Karpa in New York City. They were later divorced. Two children were born of this union, her daughter, Liisa, who married Richard S. Smith and a son, Paul Mark Karpa who married Palma Natasi. To support her family she worked as a beautician. Later, she returned to college and earned her RN.

Raita retired to Florida to enjoy the sunshine and warm weather. She came to Rexburg sixteen months ago to be near her daughter, as her health was failing.

She leaves behind her daughter and son and their spouses, four grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren. Plus a brother, Kauko Kokkonen, three stepbrothers who reside in Finland, and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death are her parents, a brother, Matti Kokkonen, a stepsister, and a granddaughter, Brittany Karpa. Raita loved people and missed her many friends around the world. She spoke of them often.

A grave side service will be held Saturday, September 27, 2014 at 11:00 at Sutton Cemetery in Archer, Idaho.