Korey Ketola

Korey Ketola 63, of St Marys, GA passed away peacefully on Sunday Sept 29, 2024 at the Senior Care Center in historic downtown St Marys.
Korey was born July 5, 1961 in Minneapolis, MN to Rebecca Seigel (deceased) and Bruce Ketola.
Korey is survived by his father, Bruce Ketola (Margaret Ketola), who resides in Flagstaff, Arizona; his sister, Tonya (Toni) Norris (David Norris,) of St Marys, GA; son, Kristopher Ketola (Heidi and son Kaleb) of St Marys, GA; daughter, Kelli Ketola (son Davin), of Jacksonville FL.
Korey grew up in northern Minnesota on Rainy Lake enjoying fishing, hunting, boating and a variety of outdoor activities with life-long best friend David Plummer (Chisago, MN).
In 1982 Korey set out for service in the US Navy. He entered boot camp training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes IL. Korey moved forward with his Naval career volunteering for submarine service. He was stationed at Kings Bay in 1991 where he grew his family with Debra Collins, (Jacksonville FL) son Kristopher and daughter Kelli.
After 30 years of Naval Service, Korey retired in 2012. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in June of 2012. Korey struggled with Parkinson's and later developed dementia from the effects of Parkinson's. Sister Toni and brother-in-law /best friend, David Norris, cared for Korey in his home from Feb 2017 to Oct 2023 when Korey went to Lakes Crossing assisted living, Kingsland Ga.
Being one of the youngest residents, Korey made many friends at Lakes Crossing. He would be seen dancing to music, helping other residents and would light up a room with his smile. Korey transitioned to the Senior Care Center St Mary's in August of 2024. As was Korey's way not to draw attention to himself, he passed quietly and comfortably in the early evening of Sunday September 29, 2024.
Relieved of pain, confusion, and loss of cognitivity, he is now at peace with our Lord. He will be dearly missed by many friends, family, and the Naval community.
Fair Winds and Following Seas - brother we have the watch.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday May 24, 2025 at Faith United Church International Falls, MN. Following Memorial Service for Bruce Ketola at 11am.