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Obituary for Patricia Ojala
Patricia Ann Ojala, born April 15, 1941 in Sheldon, Iowa, died October 18, 2021 in Lake Orion, Michigan.
In her career as a principal and educator in the Rochester School District, she inspired and influenced countless students, some newly arrived to this country. She taught them our language and customs. Some, who didn’t fit into the system as well, she gave them chances and showed them different methods to achieve their goals. To all, she showed by example and lessons that kindness, strength and work ethic would allow them to go further than they otherwise would have dared.
Pat had kind words for everyone she ever met and an ability to look into people, find where they hurt and draw the pain out, all the while so selfless to her own pain. She was strong.
Pat was a master gardener and relished time spent among trees and flowers. She delighted in long walks through woods and meadows where she felt her soul refreshed.
Pat and her husband John were married 57 years and their love was so strong they braved the next world together rather than stay in this one apart.
Pat is preceded in death by her husband John, son Michael, father Al Close, mother Alice Close, sister Mary Defer and grandson Ian Forster. She is survived by her brother Richard (Marguerite), son Scott (Jennifer) and daughter Kerry, and grandchildren Tanner, Rilynn, Casey and many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.
Visitation will take place at Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors, 39 W. Burdick, Oxford on Sunday, October 24, 2021 from 2-6 PM. Interment will take place at Oaklawn Chapel Gardens Cemetery, 15264 M-129, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783 on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 at 10 AM.
