Paula Gafner Pakarinen, 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 18, 2021 at Jones Acres Assisted Living in Arnold, Maryland, where she resided for the past nine years.

Paula was born to Christel and August Gafner on February 23, 1942 in Escanaba, Michigan. She grew up in Escanaba and graduated from Escanaba High School in 1960. Paula married David R. Pakarinen on September 7, 1963 at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Escanaba, MI. David preceded Paula in death after 38 years of marriage. Paula lived nearly 30 years in the New Orleans area before relocating to Maryland with her daughter.

Paula worked as a file clerk for Shell Oil Company in Louisiana for over 22 years. She completed a B.A. in English/Creative Writing in 1993, and a M.A. in English/ Medieval Literature in 2001 from University of New Orleans, LA.

Paula is survived by her brother, Michael George Gafner of Tucson, Arizona, three children Eric Pakarinen of Austin, TX, Kristine Wood of Severna Park, MD, Jeffrey Pakarinen of Metairie, LA, and four grandchildren.

Barranco Funeral Home in Severna Park, Maryland is assisting the Pakarinen family with arrangements. In keeping with the wishes of Paula, there will be no funeral services, and a private memorial will be held at a later date.