Thomas Paavola

Thomas “Tom” Arthur Paavola, age 66, of Millcreek, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 14, 2019 at UPMC Hamot.

He was born in Erie on February 8, 1953, son of the late Oiva Arthur and Kristi Inne Paavola.

Tom joined the United States Air Force and was stationed in North Dakota, Alaska, California, Florida, Crete and Germany.  After retiring from the Air Force, he came back to Erie and managed the Hearthside Rest Pet Cemetery.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Kathy Paavola and a sister Vickie.

Surviving to pass on his heritage is his daughter, Kelly Pattison and her husband James; a son, Thomas Paavola; his sister, Kris Paavola Hollstein and her husband Gus of New Jersey; his brother Jeff Paavola; granddaughter, Myriah who was the light of his life; grandson, James and a step granddaughter, Alaina. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home 3801 W 26^th Street (at Powell Ave) on Monday from 5:00 p.m. until the time of sharing at 7:00 p.m. Military Honors will follow.

Memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children 1645 W. 8^th Street, Erie, PA 16505.

Send condolences at www.Burtonfuneralhome.com