Veli H. Kanninen, 85, an area resident since 1955, died on Friday, February 18, 2011 at his home.

Born in Heinavesi, Finland on December 15, 1925, he was the son of Eino and Martta Poutiainen Kanninen. He served in the Finnish Army during World War II and then in the US Army. A self-employed contractor, he owned and operated Wakava Construction in Hopewell Junction.

Veli was a founding member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Fishkill; was a member of the Finnish War Veterans; and was a member and past president of the Lomala Civic Association. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and cross country skiing. A Master Ski Champion, he was a medalist in the Empire State Games.

On July 12, 1953 in Fitchburg, MA, Veli married Toini Ollikainen who survives at home. He is also survived by his son, Eric Kanninen and his wife Melody of Fishkill; his daughter, Krista Greer and her husband Stephen of Millbrook; his grandchildren, Nicholas Kanninen, Amber, Sonja-Liisa, Satu and Ethan Greer; 4 brothers and 3 sisters in Finland; and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be on Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. The Funeral Service will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1400 Route 52, Fishkill with Rev. John Young officiating. Interment will follow in Fishkill Rural Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Hospice Foundation, Inc., 374 Violet Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.