Michael Werner Ketola

Michael “Mike” Werner Ketola, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on January 1, 1956, in L’Anse, Michigan, Mike was the cherished son of the late Martin and Mildred (Lundy) Ketola. At the age of five, he began attending the Michigan School for the Deaf in Flint, where he would graduate in 1975. His time at MSD shaped his lifelong values of community, connection, and perseverance. After graduation, Mike returned to L’Anse to work alongside his family in Ketola Logging, operating a skidder. On May 26, 1979, he married the love of his life, Christine Soules, also a proud graduate of the Michigan School for the Deaf. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, faith, and friendships, eventually settling in Flint, Michigan. Mike was known for his strong work ethic and loyalty, dedicating 41 years to the Coca-Cola Company until his retirement in 2022. Beyond his career, he was a proud volunteer with Michigan Youth Development, giving back to the community and mentoring young people for two years. He is survived by his devoted wife, Christine, and his loving son Kent (Elaina) Ketola of Alabama and adopted son Michael E. Ketola . Mike also opened his heart and home to his foster children: Matthew Geller of Durand, Philip Nuccio (Kayla) of Flint, Terry Tjakpes Jr. of Baldwin, Jill Crawford of Davison, and close family Heather Golob (Nathan) of Saginaw, all of whom he guided with wisdom and love. Mike was a proud grandfather to Idris, Zion, Ivy, Chanoch, Dustin, Mirabelle, Ashton, J.J., Karla, and Jeremey. His siblings include Marty (Judy) Ketola of Lewisville, TX; Patrick (Colleen) Ketola, Peter Ketola, Paul (Christa) Ketola, and sister Mary (Tom) LeRue, all of L’Anse, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Mildred Ketola; his in-laws, Donna and Jim Soules; and his sisters-in-law, Tina and Rochelle Ketola. Mike will be remembered for his quiet strength, warm smile, and unwavering love for his family and community. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the memories he created with those who knew and loved him. 

Funeral services will be held 11 AM Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 402 S. Ballenger Hwy., Flint, MI 48532 with Rev. Thomas Dunseth officiating. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Vernon. Visitation will be held 4-8 PM Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Rd., Swartz Creek, MI 48473. Visitation will also be held 10 AM - 11 AM Wednesday, June 11 at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Michigan School for the Deaf, 1235 W Court St, Flint, MI 48503 (www.michiganschoolforthedeaf.org) in Mike’s memory.