Lasse Paivola

PAIVOLA, Lasse

Lasse, age 71 of Brookville, formerly of Helsinki, Finland passed away at his home on Thursday, April 12, 2018, following an extended illness.

He was a life-long member of the Finnish Lutheran Church and a believer in Jesus Christ.

He was a Second Lieutenant in the Finnish Army Reserves.

He served as a diplomat and commercial counselor for the Finnish embassy in Saudi Arabia.

He is survived by his Finnish family; sister, Marjukka Suomi (Jussi), daughter, Marianne Vapaavuori, son, Jere Paivola (Hanna), son, Lauri Paivola (Kaisa); and his grandchildren Vivian Vapaavuori, Ira Paivola, Ria Paivola, Viveka Vapaavuori, Selma and Lasse Elmeri Paivola.

He is also survived by his American family; wife, Michelle, son, Michael Reeves, son, Christopher Reeves (Marah), grandson, Ivan Reeves, granddaughter, Audrey, brother-in-law and hunting buddy, Mike Coyle (Heather), niece, Samantha, and nephew, Augustus, as well as his best friend, John Harkrader.

Lasse came to the USA almost 20 years ago and worked with the fire service, law enforcement, and military providing specialized communication for departments all over the country.  

He retired in 2013, bought a boat, and sailed away.  His dream was fulfilled by completing the American Great Loop single-handedly and in record time.  His boat was named Sixteen Tons and Michelle said it could have been worse than to be replaced by a gal named Sixteen Tons.  

Lasse's family will honor his life by going to stay on his boat and celebrating him there.  No formal service will be held.   

Arrangements are in the care of GILBERT-FELLERS FUNERAL HOME, 950 ALBERT RD., BROOKVILLE.  E-mail condolences may be sent by going online to www.gilbert-fellers.com