Michael S. Pavela

Michael “Polish Prince” S. Pavela, 60 of La Crosse, Wis., died unexpectedly in his home Saturday, December 21, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. He was born in La Crosse, Wis., on November 6, 1959, to Sigmund and Ardelle (Herrick) Pavela. He married Tina Jacobson on June 13, 1987, in St. Joseph the Workman Catholic Church in La Crosse, Wis., and they later divorced but remained close friends throughout the years.

Michael grew up the youngest of six children and attended Aquinas High School class of 77′. He was active in sports throughout his school years. He loved to waterski and downhill ski, often referred to himself as Quick Turn Mike. In earlier years he was a part of a custom van club where he developed a passion for custom cars and auto mechanics. Soon after high school he began working for the City of La Crosse where he later retired after working 30+ years as a long standing employee of the La Crosse Center. Shortly after he retired he purchased a home in Florida becoming a snow bird to escape the winter months up north. While in Florida he became a member of the OWLS club which symbolizes Older Wiser Living Seniors.

He wasn’t just a man who lived life; he experienced it by going to Motocross races, traveling, going to flea markets and rummage sales, riding his motorcycle, and being with what he cared about the most, family and friends. Mike was not a man who would shy away from conversation, he could talk to anyone about anything. He had a bright and energetic personality, one who was kindhearted and very generous and giving of himself to others when in need.

He is survived by his daughter; Kristen Pavela of La Crosse, Wis., two sons; Jason Davis of Tampa, Fla., and Jacob Paterson of La Crosse, Wis. three grandchildren; Kyra, K’daysia and Kamora, two sisters; Vicki Opfer of Tampa, Fla., and Patricia (Jeff) Rick of West Brookfield, Mass., and two brothers: Thomas (Shu-Jen) Pavela of San Jose, Calf., and David (Linda) Pavela of Tampa, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Karen Osteraas and one uncle Leland Herrick.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM Tues. Dec. 31, 2019, in the Blaschke & Schneider Funeral Home, 1501 West Ave. So., La Crosse, Wis. Rev. Larry Hoppe will officiate with burial to be held in Burns Cemetery, Bangor, Wis. Family and friends may visit from 10:00 until the time of services at the funeral home on Tuesday.

For all the smiles you shared with us from the bottom of our hearts thank you “Smiley”.