Allen Roy 'Packy' Pakkala

RAMSAY, Mich. - Allen Roy Pakkala, 82, of Ramsay, passed away on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at the Villa Maria Health and Rehabilitation Center in Hurley, Wisconsin.

Allen, affectionately known as "Packy," was born on Oct. 17, 1941, in Houghton, to Clarence "Buck" and Lucille Pakkala. He grew up alongside his two sisters, Irene and Jean, and the family later moved to Ramsay, during his grade school years. Packy had a passion for hockey and was a proud member of both the Wolverine Hockey Team of Ramsay and the Ironwood VFW Jets.

Throughout his life, Packy worked as a dedicated truck driver. His career spanned various trucking companies, including a memorable stint as an ice road truck driver in Alaska. As a proud member of the Teamsters, he navigated highways and roads, always with a sense of adventure. Beyond the open road, Packy found joy in riding his Harley motorcycles.

Early in life, Packy worked in Chicago as a skyscraper window washer. He relocated to Ashland, Wisconsin, where he served as a seaman in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Next, he worked on the pipeline, and on June 16, 1969, he married Dolores Jane, becoming a loving stepfather to Donald, Dietra and Lannie. The couple remarried in the Catholic Church on June 29, 1974. Although they eventually divorced on March 12, 1993, Packy continued to be a devoted stepfather. He also shared a significant part of his life with Joyce LeGassa.

Packy is survived by his daughter, Lannie Thomas, and five grandsons: Allen and Aric Barto, Johnathan Livingood, Stephen and Ryan Stolle. Additionally, he leaves behind nieces and nephews.

In honoring Packy's memory, the family has chosen to hold a private remembrance, foregoing a public service or gathering. May his spirit live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield. To send online condolences please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.