OXFORD-Arnie H. “Howie” Pajala, 81, died Monday, April 13, 2015 at home, surrounded by his loving family. He leaves his wife of 51 years, Ruth M. (Norrman) Pajala; two sons, Howard A. Pajala and his fiance, Virginia Olney of Oxford and Eric S. Pajala, of Oxford; two daughters, Lilly V. Mullen and her husband Daniel of Auburn and Melinda Jette; and a brother, Stanley Pajala of NH. He also leaves seven grandchildren, Heaven Pajala, Kristopher Pajala and his wife Amber, Alec and Nathan Pajala, Matthew and Benjamin Mullen, and Jennifer; a great granddaughter, Madeline Pajala, and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his son, Greg John Pajala and three sisters, Ruth Shackett, Sylvia Tebeau and Mildred Barsoum.
He was born in Worcester, son of Arnie J. and Constance S. (Linder) Pajala and graduated from Millbury High School. He was a Navy veteran of the Korean War. Arnie worked as a machinist at Allied Manufacturing for many years before retiring, and previously at Lincoln Machinery. He was very active with the former Millbury Street Salvation Army where he served as Corps Cadet Leader, adult bible study teacher and bell ringer. Arnie enjoyed many outdoor activities including boating, running, hiking and biking. He was also a gifted musician and could play several instruments.
Arnie’s family would like to thank the staff at Summit Elder Care of Grafton Street for all of their assistance and also, Donna Orrico of Homestaff Medical.
A visiting hour will be held on Tuesday, April 21 from 12-1 PM at Lindquist Lundin Funeral Home, 36 Butler St., Worcester. A Funeral Service will follow at 1:00 PM in the funeral home. Interment in All Faith's Cemetery will be private.