Lori (Kalev) Sparrow

Lori Sparrow is a fifth generation Estonian descendant. Her great great grandfather, John Kinna, was one of the original pioneer families that settled in the Medicine Valley near Eckville, Alberta. Lori maintains fond memories of growing up in this area and retaining her Estonian heritage.

Lori's mother, Tiiu (Koppel) Kalev was born in Estonia. Her father, Walter, was the son of Nick Kalev, who emigrated to Alberta in 1905. Walter and Tiiu's three children, Brian, Lori and Myrna all grew up in an environment whereby steam baths, rye bread, blood sausage, kringel, head cheese and Estonian songs were the norm. It is evident to see that maintaining their Estonian heritage was paramount to the Kalev family. Estonian was the lingua franca among Estonian-Canadians living in Medicine Valley.

Lori recognizes the importance of maintaining one's historic roots and ethnic heritage. She believes it is important to document family history so that stories and traditions can be shared with younger generations. This way, her children and others alike can too appreciate the accomplishments of Alberta's Estonian pioneers.

Lori is a registered nurse for the David Thompson Health region and resides on a farm north of Eckville with her husband Rick Sparrow and their three young children, Lexi, Evan and Reed.