James J. Pajunen

James J. Pajunen, age 90, of Prudenville passed away on Thursday March 3, 2022 in Minerva, Ohio with his loving family by his side.

James was born on August 17, 1931 in Flint, Michigan to Julius and Mae (James) Pajunen. James was a  Sergeant in the US Army assigned to the 9th infantry HQ.  He earned his Combat Infantry ribbon, 2 Bronze service stars, his National Defense Service, and United Nations service medals in Korea. James was married on August 14, 1955 in Flint, Michigan to Lillian  Austin. The couple started coming to Prudenville in 1977. After James' retirement in 1991 they moved to the area from Lansing. He attended the Houghton Lake Wesleyan Church. James enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time with his family. The grandchildren always looked forward to his smurf  pancakes.

James is survived by his loving wife of 66 years Lillian Pajunen of Prudenville, daughters; Sue (Bob) Carpenter of Eaton Rapids and Lisa (Gregg) Carpenter of Minerva, Ohio, eleven grandchildren and thirty seven great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter; Deborah Cole.

Funeral Services for James J. Pajunen will be conducted at the Houghton Lake Wesleyan Church on Tuesday March 8, 2022 at 11 am. Interment will be in Denton Township Cemetery, Prudenville. Visitation will be held on Monday March 7, 2022 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Christler Funeral Home-Prudenville Chapel. Christler Funeral Home-Prudenville Chapel is serving the family. Condolences can be sent to the family online at www.christler-holdship.com

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