Obituary: J. Alan Paavola

As received from Memorial Chapel Funeral and Cremation Service:

J. Alan Paavola, (known to all as Alan,) 54, of Chassell Painesdale Rd in Houghton, sadly passed away at his home on Thursday, March 28th, 2024.

Born on April 18, 1969 in Elgin, Illinois to Eugenia (Gena) Paavola and his “father” who never acknowledged his existence; he graduated in 1987 from Houghton High School and went on to the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix, AZ and acquired a degree as a Motorcycle Technician in 1991. He loved to work on all small engines, loved his cats, enjoyed trying new recipes, gardening, riding his dirt bike and even had his own bee farm for a while. 

He worked at Michigan Tech for several years as a Building Mechanic using his extensive knowledge in maintenance in a variety of areas.

He was very kind-hearted; enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing video games with his daughter, Alayna, who was his pride and joy. Even as much as he may not have expressed it with words, she was his everything and he showed her in the ways he best knew. His passing leaves a huge void in her young life. 

In 1992, he married Alison Mayer. They were married for 17 years and although they were no longer married when he passed, they were still good friends and loving co-parents to their daughter. 

Alan was preceded in death by his Sister, Ronnie Jean, Brother, Gerald (Jerry), Grandmother Irene Moilanen and Step-Grandfather Walter Moilanen. 

Alan is survived by his daughter, Alayna Paavola, his Mother, Gena Paavola, his Aunts: Judy Manning and Brenda Papke and numerous other aunts, uncles and cousins. 

Alan’s wish was to be cremated. Condolences can be sent to Memorial Chapel at https://www.memorialchapel.net for his grieving daughter, Alayna. Many thanks to them for their guidance and kindness. 

No memorial service is planned at this time. 

Thank you to all who loved him unconditionally.

The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Chassell Chapel is assisting the family with the arrangements.