Paula Marie Parkinson

Paula Marie Parkinson Born July 22, 1961, in Detroit, MI – Died March 16, 2025 Paula Marie Parkinson, beloved mother, sister, and friend, passed away on March 16, 2025, at the age of 63. She was the daughter of Jack and Barbara Ritchey and the middle child of five siblings: Julie, Thomas, Timothy, and Sandy. Paula was preceded in death by her ex-husband, Kenneth James Stefan, with whom she once shared a family and countless memories. Throughout her life, Paula had the opportunity to live in various places, including Metro-Detroit, Chicago, Houghton, the Thumb of Michigan, and Sault Ste. Marie. However, her heart felt most at home in the Upper Peninsula, where she found peace and solace on the shores of Lake Superior. Paula was deeply proud of her professional career. A graduate with an associate degree in Health Information Technology (RHIT/HIM), she found great fulfillment in her work, always dedicated to helping and showing deep compassion for those in need within Michigan psychiatric centers and prisons. She was known for her unwavering determination and commitment to excellence, never giving up, even when faced with countless challenges. Known for her effortless cool and fierce independence, Paula was a true "lone wolf." A gorgeous blonde bombshell with a love for lipstick, she always made sure she was more than presentable—her timeless style was a statement in itself, and she wore it proudly. Paula had a deep affinity for antiques, all forms of crafts, and Clint Eastwood movies which reinforced her bold, no-fear attitude. She also had a passion for cooking and was known for her ability to make legendary salads and Sauerbraten, with her recipes bringing joy to family and friends alike. She poured her creativity and love into everything she did, and her kindness and thoughtfulness touched everyone she encountered. Paula had a special gift for giving—whether it was a hand-crafted item or a carefully chosen gift, she always made sure to show her love and appreciation. Paula loved hard and fought fiercely for the people and things she believed in. Her generous heart, famously quick wit, and undying loyalty will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing this special woman. Paula is survived by her loving daughter and best friend, Pamela, who shared an unbreakable bond with her mother—truly two peas in a pod; her son-in-law, Sean; her siblings; and many other cherished loved ones. “I really really really really love you!” “I really really really really love you too!”