Hancock, Gary D. Paavola, 55, a resident of Hancock and former South Range resident passed away Wednesday October 7, 2020, at the UP Health – Portage Hospital following a short illness. He was born on August 19, 1965, in Hancock, MI, a son of the late Harold “PA” and Catherine “Dolly” (Ravasz) Paavola. Gary was raised in South Range and was a graduate of the Jeffers High School with the class of 1985. Following High School Gary worked for many years as a volunteer Janitor for the South Range Elementary School. For the past seven years Gary has made his home at the Lake View Manor in Hancock. Gary was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church of South Range. He was an avid collector of records and enjoyed following baseball especially the Detroit Tigers. Gary always had a wonderful sense of humor, enjoyed blowing bubbles, walking, working crossword puzzles and reading. Surviving are: Several Aunts, Uncles, and cousins A graveside blessing for Gary will be held 11 am Monday October 12, 2020, at the Mt. View Cemetery in South Range with Fr. John Martignon to officiate. To view Gary’s obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net. The Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes of Houghton are assisting the family with the arrangements.