Patricia Paavola

She was born on June 5, 1943, the daughter of Mortimer and Genevieve (Cloutier) Eustice in Detroit. She attended Sacred Heart Catholic School and Calumet High School graduating with the class of 1961.

Pat worked for the CLK Public Schools as a kitchen aide in the cafeteria, retiring in 2005 after 26 years of service. She enjoyed her time with the students and staff leaving many lasting memories.

She enjoyed agate picking, crocheting, reading, going for rides to see deer and other wildlife and playing games on her computer with friends. She loved all the get togethers with family and friends at McLain State Park and at many various occasions.

Her laugh, love for laughter and hugs will always be remembered by those who knew her. She always made people smile even when she wasn’t feeling or doing well. She will be missed by all until we are together again.

On April 16, 1992, she married John Paul Paavola in Eagle River, Michigan.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Paul Paavola; son, Curtis Lee Balm; her parents; her brother, Keith; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

She is survived by her daughter, Valerie (Bob) Learmont of Bootjack; sons, Frank Balma of Lansing and Victor P. (Joy) Petaja of Kearsarge; a stepdaughter, Jamie (Zack) Mleko of Norwalk, Iowa; a sister-in-law, Mary Lanala of Houghton; a special niece, Sherry (Paul) Strack of Hurontown; and special nephews, David and Edward Lanala. Patricia also had six grandchildren, seven step grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Her last years of her life were made more enjoyable with the many hours of laughter and storytelling with the gang at Laurium Housing, who always were so special to her.

Pat thanks the special cousins who supported her through her entire life. A special thank you to the staff at University of Michigan Hospital Cancer Center, Upper Great Lakes Family Health in Lake Linden, Aspirus Infusion and The Omega House for the wonderful care she received.

In keeping with Pat’s wishes, a graveside service for family and close friends will be held to honor her life and memory.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Omega House, 2211 Memorial Lane Houghton, MI, 49931, in Pat’s honor.

The Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com.