Stanley Ojala

Stanley Kenneth Ojala, 81, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was born on July 18, 1943, in Brimley, Michigan, and lived a life centered around family, friends, church, games and plenty of laughter.

He met his wife Sharon in kindergarten, and after high school, they married and spent 42 years together before she passed in 2006. They built a life full of love, raising 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 highlight and joy.

Born & raised on a farm in Brimley, Michigan as the youngest of nine, he was part of a big, beloved family of siblings, nieces, and nephews—he deeply treasured his time with them. He had a great laugh and always had a twinkle in his eye, ready for mischief or a practical joke. Whether it was playing sports or games, hunting with his sons and family and friends, enjoying good food, picking berries–bucket strapped on his belt, or shaking his handful of coins (IYKYK), he found a way to bring fun with him. And there was never a project that he couldn’t fix (quite often with duct tape) or an activity he wouldn’t try. He also loved his seasons of playing basketball at Lake Superior State College, and was proud to be a member of their first Hall of Fame class in 1995.

Per his wishes, there will be no formal service, but if you'd like to honor his memory, 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.