Ragna Thomsen (nee Svenske), age 99, died 14 December 2025 in Ottawa. Her husband, Knud Thomsen, of over 65 years predeceased her in November 2022. She was born in Kirkenes, northern Norway on September 15th, 1926 to Ole Svenske and Inga Karen Moste.

She was one of nine brothers and sisters and is survived by her stepbrother Einar. Ragna had a difficult youth having lost her mother at age seven to pneumonia. At age 13, her home and country were invaded by the Nazis after which her schooling ended abruptly. For nearly five years Ragna lived in a near continuous state of war, with the Russians bombing and attacking the Nazis to seek control of the strategic northern port. During one of many air raids, she spent over three weeks in an iron mine / bomb shelter while most of Kirkenes was destroyed. She lost everything except for an aquamarine pendant she had been given from her family for her Confirmation. These events had a lasting impact on Ragna’s appreciation for family and the simple things in life.

After the war ended she travelled to Oslo in southern Norway and worked as a hospital aid, dental assistant, and office worker. In 1954, she decided to travel to Montreal, Canada to take a position as an au pair for the children of the Norwegian Consul General. Her intention to return to Norway after a few years was significantly changed when she met a young Dane in 1956. Ragna and Knud were married on December 15th, 1956, followed by the birth of their son Glenn (Karen spouse) in 1957, and their daughter Lill (Michael spouse) in 1960.

Ragna worked hard to give her family what she did not experience: a maternal loving home, constant encouragement to get an education, along with a strong work ethic, honesty and kindness to those less fortunate and a love for nature. For many years, the family enjoyed a simple life at the cottage with lifelong friends and family at Lac Dufresne north of Montreal. As Ragna and Knud neared retirement, they were always there to support and cheer on their growing family including five grandchildren: Gregory (Andria), Breonna (Alexander), Kirsten (Riley), Madeline (Sebastien) and Aili (Conner). Ragna could not be prouder of, or loved them more, including more recently, the start of the next generation of great-grandchildren starting with Oliver and Salem.

Ragna loved having her family around her and she loved to spoil them with her Norwegian goodies. She has passed along so many wonderful memories, customs and traditions and she will leave a big hole in our hearts.

Many thanks to the doctors, nurses, PSW’s and staff at the Extendicare Starwood’s who have lovingly cared for our Mom/Mormor/Farmor for these past three years.