Carl John Pumala

PEORIA, Ariz. - Carl John Pumala, 94, formerly of Ironwood, Mich., and Prescott Valley, died Feb. 4, 2014, in Peoria.

He was the son of deceased parents Matt Pumala and Amelia "Emily" Paukamaki, of Finland. Carl was born in Erwin Township, Mich., on Oct. 6, 1919.

Carl achieved many accomplishments during his life. He served in the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936. In 1946, he attended the Utilities Engineering Institute, earning a certificate in auto body and fender craftsmanship as a welder. In 1947, Carl was employed by the Bureau of Mines (Newport Location). Carl retired in 1978 from the Erwin Township County Road Commission as a driver and utility worker, relocating to Arizona. His hobbies were the great outdoors, hunting, fishing and camping.

Carl married Jennie Dudra on July 15, 1939. She preceded him in death on April 19, 1960.

Carl married Philomene Stupak on June 24, 1961. She also preceded him in death on Jan. 23, 2010.

He was also preceded in death by a stepdaughter, Rita Wick; a stepgranddaughter, Nancy Wick; and stepgrandsons, Phillip Bunjovac and Vincent Bosanac.

Carl is survived by his three daughters from his first marriage, Carol (Robert) Pellow, Janet (Jerry) Whippie and Janice (David) Maki; and from his second marriage, stepdaughter Patricia (Ted) Bunjovac, and stepson Joseph (Paula) Bosanac. Carl is also survived by his brother, Jake Pumala; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren from many states.

Cremation has taken place per Carl's wishes.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Jerome's Catholic Church in Phoenix at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 21.

Final disposition will be at Riverside Cemetery in Ironwood, which will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of the Valley.

A special thank you goes to the staff at White Dove Assisted Living in Peoria, where Dad lived his last years. Thank you to Dad's special son and family (Ted and Pat) for all their loving care given so freely to our Dad in our absence. Dad appreciated you all.