Lucille Elona Paavola

HANCOCK, Mich. – Lucille (Franz) Paavola, 87, a longtime resident of Hancock and current resident of Arbor Green Senior Living in Houghton passed away Thursday, March 23.
     Born December 12, 1935, to Elona (Beckman) and Arvid Franz, she grew up in Dollar Bay and graduated from Dollar Bay High School in 1953 where she was the president of her senior class. During her school years, she participated in band, cheerleading and forensics.
     Following graduation, she moved to Milwaukee, Wis., where she was an office worker for several large corporations.
     Lucille married Reuben “Achie” Paavola on Aug. 1, 1959. Together they shared 56 years of marriage and were blessed with four children: Cindy Paavola, Sandy (Roger) Stromer, Debbie Paavola and Rod (Tiffany) Paavola

     In addition to being chief of operations of the Paavola household, she held jobs in the business office of the Daily Mining Gazette, was a banquet waitress at the Colonial Steak House, and worked for many years at the Surplus Outlet.
     Lucille was an avid reader, especially of mystery novels, loved Hallmark movies, and enjoyed watching sports. However, her all-time favorite role was that of Gramma to Steve, Brian, Cully Betsy and Kyle Stromer; and Dylan and Aili Paavola.
     She is also survived by her sister Jane Sporer, as well as nieces Linda Sporer Brundage, Dawn Franz Arruiza and Jamie Paavola Sopher; nephews Boyd and Pete Paavola, Michael Sporer and Don Franz, Jr.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Achie, brother Don Franz, grandson Cully Stromer, and niece Christine Sporer.
     A time to remember Lucille with her family will be held from 12 noon-1 p.m., Thursday, April 6, followed by a 1 p.m. memorial service at the Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Hancock. 

    A graveside service with burial will be held 11:00 am Saturday July 1, 2023, in the Lakeside Cemetery.

     In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Copper Country Senior Meals Program (821 Water Street, Hancock, MI 49930) or Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly (527 Hancock Street, Hancock, MI 49930). Condolences may be expressed online at www.memorialchapel.net.

     The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service - Hancock Chapel has been assisting the family with the arrangements.