Stanley Ojala

Stanley Kenneth Ojala, 81, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, March 19, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He lived a life full of family, friends, church, games, and laughter.

He met his wife Sharon in kindergarten; they married after high school-spending 42 loving years together before her passing in 2006. They raised three children: Lynette (& Scott) Rubin, Kirt (& Carin) Ojala, and Davin (& Tara) Ojala. His grandkids-Tanner, Dawson (& Rachel), Brock (& Ashley), Sara, John, Avery, and Peyton-were his greatest joy.

Born on July 18, 1943, and raised on a farm in Brimley, Michigan, Stan was the youngest of nine. Preceded in death by his parents Reuben Sr. and Alma, and siblings Reuben Jr., Cecil, Gloria Cottle, Eleanor, Clarence, and Gladys McKiddie, he's survived by sisters Margaret Mathews, Mildred Upchurch, and honorary brother Rick. He loved his big family-siblings, in-laws, nieces, and nephews-and had a great laugh and a twinkle in his eye, ready for mischief or a practical joke on any of them.

Stan brought fun wherever he went-playing sports, hunting with his sons & friends, helping at church, picking berries with a bucket strapped to his belt, or shaking his handful of coins (IYKYK). There was no project he couldn't fix (often with duct tape) or game he wouldn't try. He also loved playing basketball at Lake Superior State College and was proud to be part of its first Hall of Fame class in 1995.

Per his wishes, no formal service will be held. To honor him, donations can be made to Parkinson's research or Faith Hospice. He will be deeply missed, but we know, because of his faith, he is healed and whole in heaven.