Dec 31, 1942 – Feb 12, 2026
It is with broken hearts and extreme sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, papa and great-papa, Roy Allan Nalli.
Surrounded by the love of his family, he passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, following a courageous battle with cancer and other health challenges. Roy remained in the comfort of his own home where he enjoyed watching sports and game shows until just three days before his passing.
Roy was born on New Year’s Eve, December 31st 1942, in Port Arthur (Thunder Bay) to Jalmar and Ida (Hynna) Nalli. He was raised at the family home on Dawson Rd, Intola Township alongside his brothers, Arnold and Leo. His love for pets began here at an early age. Roy continued to always have a dog by his side.
Roy attended Five Mile School and then Port Arthur Technical and Commercial High School (Hillcrest High School).
Roy’s professional journey began in 1964 as a Highway Surveyor in Kenora. Upon returning to Thunder Bay, he spent most of his career as Purchasing Manager at Vulcan Machinery. Following its closure, he co-founded Kutlog Manufacturing before launching the automotive paint supply division at Superior Coatings. It was his love of painting cars that led to Roy’s dedication as he successfully grew the business over 20 years, retiring at the age of 81.
In 1964, Roy married Lorraine (Zywina), and together they raised four children, Joyce, Cindy, Allan and Marlene. Roy was the ultimate family man, leading many camping adventures and taking his family on road trips. He taught his children to fish, waterski, motorbike, cross country ski, and to snowmobile. He ensured the next generations inherited his love for cards, cribbage, and knowing exactly when to “bring your quarters to the table.” Chase the Ace was an all time favourite of everyone’s.
Following Lorraine’s passing in 1986, Roy formed a partnership with Gloria Baglien. They were inseparable for over 35 years. Gloria stood by Roy’s side and looked after him until his passing.
Roy enjoyed curling and golfing and was a member of the Port Arthur Curling Club and Emerald Greens Golf Course. He was also in a league for 10-pin bowling, and coached hockey at the Carrick outdoor rink for many years. He would also love a night out at Hanson’s Pool Hall with the boys.
He was a hunter and fisherman and loved organizing his annual fishing trip with friends and family for over 40 years. A fishing trip that led to the formation of the “Sturgeon 300 Club”.
Roy spent many summers at Amberlite Campground on Lake Weikwabinonaw where he made many life long friends. Here on “Hangover Hill,” Roy was the life of the party, organizing cribbage and horseshoe tournaments, dances and fireworks displays. Every Friday night when arriving everyone would meet at “the campfire” for a beverage or two!
His life was rich in friendships which were formed during childhood, sports, at work and also at “The Bar”. Each one a reflection of how easy he connected with people.
Roy was and will forever be a dedicated fan to the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays. He also enjoyed Sunday Nascar.
Celebrating his Finnish heritage Roy and Gloria could be spotted annually at the St. Urho’s Day parade on Bay Street, carrying signs along the route.
Roy definitely was a legend! He will be remembered for his storytelling, his sharp sense of humor, his laugh before a picture was taken and his classic Finnish jokes. He often reminded everyone, “I tell the jokes around here.”
Roy is survived by his partner, Gloria Baglien; his children, Joyce (Brent) Dubinsky, Cindy (Tom) Posmituk, Allan (Tanya) Nalli, and Marlene (Rob) Trystruha; his grandchildren, Chelsie (Adam) De Vos, Ali Dubinsky (Cole), Adam Dubinsky, Ashley Bortolin, Jordan Posmituk (Megan), Jevan Nalli, Kenan Nalli, Cody Trystruha (Kate), and Colin Trystruha (Alana); and his great-grandchildren, Charlie De Vos, Cohen Bortolin and Jillian Trystruha. He is also survived by numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and friends.
He was predeceased by his wife, Lorraine Nalli, his parents, Jalmar and Ida Nalli, his brothers, Arnold Nalli and Leo Nalli, father in law Lloyd Zywina, mother in law Regina Coulombe, step father in law George Coulombe and grandson Brady Dubinsky.
Roy’s words: “I go now, hello.”
The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at St. Joseph Care Group (SJCG) and Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). Special thanks to Nori at SJCG for your lighthearted way, always encouraging Roy to keep up with his physiotherapy. Also a very special thank you to the staff at TBRHSC Emergency Department and especially 3C for your care and compassion for Roy and his entire family.
A donation in Roy’s memory can be made to Paws for Love Dog Rescue pawsforlovethunderbay@gmail.com or any charity of your choice.
A celebration of Roy’s life will be held Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 12:00pm at the Italian Hall – 132 Algoma St.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
