Miriam Leila Haapala

Miriam Leila Haapala, 46 years of age of Parma, Michigan, returned to her heavenly home on September 2, 2019 following a valiant battle with cancer. Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace. Miriam was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan to Arthur and Krystina (Popowski) Haapala on June 9, 1973; a police officer and homemaker respectively. She grew up in Chelsea, Michigan prior to relocating to Chassell, Michigan in the Upper Peninsula. Miriam was number three of eleven siblings and she treasured the relationships with her brothers and sisters. She found joy in God's creation and quality time with her family. Many far and wide have been touched by Miriam's influence. As a devoted single mother, she spent her life nurturing her daughter Krystin in faith. While raising Krystin, she instilled the qualities of loyalty, hospitality, love, and led by example. Following her move to the Jackson, Michigan area, Miriam played an active role in her local church, Fellowship Baptist Church. She was involved in the preparation and organization of many events and activities; she also had a passionate heart for youth. Miriam could often be found sitting in the back row with a teenager asking her advice, giving a praise report, or simply sharing a laugh. Miriam's laughter is a sound that will be missed by all in times to come. Miriam was blessed to be in a large and loving family. She is survived by her daughter, Krystin Haapala; her brothers and sisters Mari Anna (Kevin) Wahr, Wendy (Jerry) Massey, Stephen (Nichole) Haapala, Lars (Mareshah) Haapala, Karina (Andre) Wishon, Micah (Jessica) Haapala, Jonathan (Anikka) Haapala, Joshua (Melita) Haapala, Krysia (Mark) Traffie, Carl (Victoria) Haapala; and her parents, Arthur and Krystina Haapala, along with numerous nieces and nephews. The family gratefully accepts your prayers, condolences and memories. Memorial contributions may be given to Krystin Haapala in care of the Arthur-Day Funeral Home. Visitation will be at Arthur-Day Funeral Home on 820 5th Street in Michigan Center on Thursday, September 5, 2019 from 1-4 pm and 6-8 pm. Funeral services to honor and celebrate the life of Miriam will be held at Fellowship Baptist Church, 3200 Reed Road, Clarklake, Michigan on Friday, September 6 at 11 am with visitation one-hour prior. Pastor Dan White will officiate. Interment will follow at Fifield Cemetery in Blackman Township immediately following the funeral. The family invites all to a celebration luncheon at Cascades Manor in Jackson and guests may choose to go there immediately following the funeral service, where we will honor Miriam's memory by sharing stories, a meal, and laughter.

Miriam Leila Haapala

June 9, 1973 - September 2, 2019