Kerry John "Papa K" Soave

Kerry John Soave, beloved son, brother, uncle, grandfather, godfather, and friend, passed away on September 19, 2025, after a courageous year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was
born on October 4, 1946, in Michigan.

Kerry was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Mafalda, and his three brothers, Frank, Kenneth, and Thomas. Kerry grew up in Oak Park, Michigan, on Sussex Street - remembered by many as a uniquely close community. His home was the gathering place, where friends and neighbors spent endless summer days swimming in his pool, laughing on the porch late into the night, and building lifelong bonds.

In his youth, Kerry attended Eastern Michigan University before serving his country honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. The day he returned home in uniform, stepping onto his front porch, he was greeted with admiration and pride - a moment forever etched in the memory of those who loved him.

A gifted athlete, Kerry played baseball throughout Detroit, including for the Lucidies Lounge team. He cherished the game, the camaraderie, and the laughter it brought. In the mid-1970s, Kerry moved to Florida, where his love for baseball continued. Outside of work, he could often be found on the field, at the horse track, grabbing breakfast at McDonald's, or surrounded by family and friends.

Known to many as "Papa K," Kerry lived a full and exciting life, but his greatest joy was being a grandfather. From playing Santa each Christmas Eve at the Wolfer home, to refereeing prep football games, to go-kart and golf cart rides - he was always ready to join in the fun. After work, he often stopped by to play "Hide" with the kids, filling their days with laughter and surprise.

His bright spirit, booming personality, and endless love for his family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered at family dinners, holiday gatherings, and the everyday moments he always found a way to make special.

Kerry is survived by his cherished grandchildren: Ryan, Griffin, and Preston Wolfer; Haley Hunt; and Maxam and Zsih Olatunde. He also leaves behind his daughters-in-love, Deana Hunt and Amy Reeves; his sons-in-law, Ron Hunt and Tom Reeves; and his goddaughter, Natasha, with her spouse Toyin Olatunde. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who will remember him with love.

A celebration of Kerry's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather t0 honor his memory and share the countless stories that reflect his extraordinary life.

He will be missed deeply and remembered always.

Arrangements entrusted to Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care