Paul Mathew Kostamo

ST. JOHNS, Mich. - Paul Mathew Kostamo passed away on Sept. 26, 2020, at the age of 82. Paul was born on June 13, 1938, in Pelkie, the son of Paul J. and Bertha (Kemppianen) Kostamo.

He was a graduate of Luther L. Wright High School in Ironwood, class of 1956. After high school, Paul served in the U.S. Air Force and upon returning home continued his education at Gogebic Community College in Ironwood. Paul furthered his education, earning a bachelor's degree from Michigan State University in 1965.

After college, Paul worked at Chrysler in the Parts Division and the Marine Industrial Division. He also worked at Merck Pharmaceuticals for a short time and then served eight years with the State Department in Vietnam during the war.

It was while in Vietnam he met his wife, Linh. Returning to the United States, they were married in February 1975. In 1977, Paul and Linh opened Paul's Party Shoppe in historic downtown Saint Johns. In 1996, they opened the Country and Garden Shoppe,on the east edge of town.

Paul was a loyal member of the former Clinton County Country Club for many years.

Paul loved billiards and bowling, and was a member of the Saint Johns Pool League for 40-plus years. Paul was always an avid sports fan; especially his beloved Spartans. In later years, he enjoyed the casinos.

Paul is survived by his wife, Linh; daughters, Lisa of Chicago, and Jennifer of Brooklyn, New York; and his granddaughter, Janette. Paul was also loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins and loved ones.

A celebration of Paul's life will be held at a later date.

Fond memories and messages of condolence and support for the family can be shared online on Paul's obituary page at keckcolemanfh.com, or to the family's home at 1008 E. Walker St, St. Johns, MI 48879.