July 16, 2026 | By Emilie Jacques
Communities are not the buildings we call home, the places we occupy when we clock in or the roads we take to commute in between; communities are the people and stories that fill those spaces.
Ed Tossava was a pillar of his community for decades, helping usher in changes that would serve his community and the people he loves for generations to come. He was a hardworking farmer, blessed with the abundance of family; but extended his love far beyond kin.
When the opportunity arose to redo the community ice arena, Ed knew he wanted to be involved.
“My grandfather loved everyone, and absolutely adored children,” said Wanda Juntunen. “He thought it could be not only a fun place for children to play, but a safe place for folks too.”
Ed set to work making his vision a reality. He helped raise funds, bolster community interest, and put literal blood, sweat and tears into creating a new space by helping raise funds, and maintaining it through each season. Many of today's community traditions and events that take place at the arena, thanks in part to Ed's life-long dedication.
That creation of the arena was several decades ago now, and with the passing time came needed updates. When it was time to put love into the cherished ice arena, the Laird Township Recreation Committee reached out to Copper Shores Community Health Foundation. Together they developed a responsive $106,395 grant to support accessibility upgrades, resurfaced asphalt on the arena, and new windows and doors to better insulate the warming shack in all weather conditions.
These upgrades open up the arena for more activities and opportunities to connect, like hosting a farmers market, an annual community-wide rummage sale, educational workshops, rollerblading, basketball and more. In an already beloved space, the community will continue to flourish, just as Ed had always dreamed.
To honor that dream, Wanda and her aunts set out to dedicate the arena in his name. The dedication takes place on Saturday, July 18, from 12 to 2 p.m. at the Laird Township Ice Arena. A potluck lunch will be served, attendees are encouraged to bring a dish.
“He would love that it’s still being used,” said Wanda. “But he would probably kick us all in the butt for doing a dedication to him. He just wanted to be there to help others."
Ed Tossava exemplified what it meant to be a part of a community, and that legacy lives on in those who continue to make memories at the arena.
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