Richard M. Pohjola's Obituary
Richard Melvin Pohjola, age 63, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2023. He was born December 25, 1959 in Muskegon at Hackley Hospital to Melvin and Margaret (Kailey) Pohjola. Richard graduated from Holton High School and married his now former spouse, Deborah S. Smith, in August of 1993 and went on to have one daughter, Katie, in April of 1995. Richard fell ill in 2016 and was put in hospice in 2021, where he passed away peacefully. Richard had a love of all kinds of animals and was always willing to help a friend in need. He loved lazy days on the couch watching TV and drinking coke. He loved live music and always being the life of the party. Richard will be missed by his daughter, grandchildren, and many friends. SURVIVORS include his daughter, Katie M. Stearns and son-in-law, Richard; two grandsons: Andrew and Derek Stearns, and a grandbaby due in August of 2023; and two sisters: Carol and Sandra. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved dog, Petey. Private family services will be held. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Ravenna Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 3570 Thomas St., Ravenna, MI 49451 (231) 853-6511
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