Josha Arthur Kantola's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Josha Arthur Kantola
30 Weeks of Strength and Grace
Josha Arthur Kantola, son of Phillip and Lisa Kantola born sleeping 07/22/2025 at 11:07pm. With our hearts broken but full of love, we announce the passing of our precious son, Josha, who was born sleeping at 30 weeks. Though his time with us was brief, his strength and beauty were beyond measure. Josha was perfect. A gift we held for such a short time yet one we will carry in our hearts forever. His spirit was gentle, yet strong, like a white-tailed deer fawn, tender and fragile yet filled with the quiet power of nature. He loved it when his Mom ate tacos and he did a lot of extreme jiu-jitsu in his Mom's belly, particularly at night. He loved his Daddy's voice so much he would move as soon as he heard him and stop when his Daddy tried to feel him move, like a deer in headlights. His big sister- Jessa, loved talking to him every night before bed, hugged Mom's belly and expressed how much she loved him every day. He was an exact image of his Daddy: big hands, strawberry blonde hair- with a full head of hair, 15.25 inches long, 2lbs 6oz., and blue eyes: he was absolutely beautiful. He was, and always will be our little fighter. We find comfort in knowing that, like the fawn who runs free in the woods, our baby boy has found peace in the arms of The Lord. His life is a reminder of the preciousness of time, strength, and the depth of love we hold for him, and for that, we are forever grateful. Though we had only 30 weeks to dream of him, he left a lifetime of love and memories in our hearts. Our hearts ache with his absence, but we know he will forever live on in our memories. He is now with The Lord and multiple family members in heaven, and we carry him with us every single day and in everything we do. We love you, our little fawn, and we will never forget your strength, your beauty, and how much of a fighter you are. He is loved by so many:
-His Mommy and Daddy, Phillip Lisa Kantola.
-His big sister: Jessa
-His grandparents: Dean Nancy Kantola, Dennis Karen Rich, Eric Mikelle Sheggrud
-Aunts and Uncles: Caleb Karla Gossens, Thomas Abbey Kantola, Tyler Rich, Zachary Sheggrud, Jacob Mandy Cummins
And many other family members and friends.
There will be a celebration gathering 5:30-8:30 PM Wednesday, August 20, 2025 in the Maranatha Room at Ravenna Baptist Church, 3186 Blackmer Road, Ravenna, MI 49451.
For those wishing to make a memorial donation, please consider gifts to the family for Josha’s medical expenses. Arrangements handled by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey Street, Norton Shores, MI 49444. Sign the online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Josha?
What’s a lesson you learned from Josha?
Share a story where Josha's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Josha you’ll never forget.
How did Josha make you smile?