06/11/2025
In Loving Memory of Cody Michael Saranpaa
The Shining One
November 3, 1992 – June 7, 2025
Cody Michael Saranpaa, a radiant soul whose light touched everyone he met, left us too soon on June 7, 2025, at the age of 32. Surrounded by loved ones at Providence Portland Medical Center, Cody faced complications from pancreatitis with unwavering courage and grace for two years, embodying the strength of the Viking spirit he so deeply cherished. Born on November 3, 1992, in Astoria, Oregon, to Bryce William and Molly Ann (Attig) Saranpaa, Cody’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and an unyielding passion for living fully.
Cody was a painter by trade, pouring his heart into the family painting business on the Long Beach Peninsula. More than a skilled craftsman, he was a mentor to many Job Corps students, shaping their lives with his incredible work ethic and values of honesty, loyalty, integrity, patience, and kindness. His generosity knew no bounds—whether helping elderly or disabled neighbors with groceries or offering a steady hand to those who had fallen, Cody was a beacon of compassion and selflessness.
A devoted dog dad to Raiden, Cody found joy in their daily walks at the Port of Ilwaco, where he’d watch Harold the Heron fish with quiet wonder. An exceptional cook, he delighted in preparing meals for friends and family, filling their hearts as much as their plates. Cody’s adventurous spirit led him to camping, fishing, archery, and foraging for mushrooms, always embracing the beauty of the world around him. A fan of the Kill Tony show, he found humor and connection in shared laughter.
Cody was a Rune Master with the soul of a Viking, fiercely loving and protecting those he held dear. He was a fifth generation Brownsmead man and was proud of his Finnish heritage. His curiosity was boundless, leading him to explore Norse mythology, world religions, philosophy, metaphysics, health, and bodybuilding. A gifted artist, Cody’s creativity flowed through every aspect of his life, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and inspiration. Cody loved a wide variety of music genres and was so proud of his Jeep’s sound system, which was an “earthquake on wheels.”
Cody is survived by his mother, Molly, and stepfather, who Cody loved like a father, Peter Charlton, who considers Cody to be his son and has always loved and supported Cody unconditionally; his sister, Lacey Ann Meneguzzi; his aunt, Nikki Fowler; his uncle, Jamie Attig; his grandparents, John D. Attig, Lorrine A. Ripley, and Larry W. Saranpaa; his best friend, Brian Murphy; and cousins Ryan and Wally Fowler. He was preceded in death by his father, Bryce Saranpaa, and grandmother, Lois Kinsley.
Though his physical presence is no longer with us, Cody’s light continues to shine in the hearts of all who knew him. His curiosity, kindness, and fierce love will forever inspire those he touched. As we say goodbye, we imagine Cody walking alongside Raiden, casting a line with Harold the Heron nearby, his Viking soul at peace in the eternal halls of Valhalla.
We extend heartfelt thanks to the nurses, CNAs, respiratory therapists, environmental services technicians, patient transporters, chaplains, laboratory technicians, physical and occupational therapists, and doctors at Providence Portland Medical Center. Special gratitude goes to the 7 South team for their love, support, kindness, humor, and for treating Cody like family rather than just a patient, making hospital life not only bearable but joyful. We also deeply appreciate Dr. Jon M. Gerry and his hepatobiliary team for their expertise, encouragement, and advocacy.
A memorial service to celebrate Cody’s life will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Penttila’s Chapel in Long Beach, Washington, with viewing at 10:00 a.m. The public is warmly invited to join in honoring his memory. A private interment will follow at Oceanview Cemetery in Warrenton, Oregon. Arrangements are being handled by Penttila’s Funeral Home.
Rest in peace, dear Cody. You were, and always will be, The Shining One.
