Leslie W. Niva

Leslie William Niva, 81, passed away Thursday, January 4, 2024, at the Omega House in Houghton following a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born in Toivola, Leslie served in the U.S. Army for two years as an "Atomic Soldier", and radiation exposure as part of the Davy Crockett nuclear weapons system testing program ultimately caused his cancer. Following his enlistment, he fell in love with the ruggedness of Alaska, where he lived and worked for many years before spending a decade in San Diego and then returning to his family's homestead in Toivola. Leslie was SISU personified and a proud veteran.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Martha (Kommes) and Aale Niva; and his son, Erik. Leslie is survived by his sisters, Mildred McClung and Melba Weber; children, Matthew, Liisa, and Kristopher; grandson, Oliver; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Pamela (Borneman) Laak (former spouse) was the mother of Erik and Matt. Beatriz (Hernandez) Niva (former spouse) is the mother of Liisa and Kris. The family is grateful to Kris and Mildred for the care they provided Leslie during his last years.

The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service - Mt. View Chapel of South Range is assisting the family with the arrangements which will be announced at a later time.