Pastor Giles Ekola

Pastor Giles Ekola passed away March 27, 2020 at the Evansville Care Center. Giles was born March 27-28, 1927 to August and Hilja Ekola in Crystal Falls, MI.

Giles and Sally Ann Soderberg were married August 2, 1952. Five wonderful children were born to them: Susan (Eugene) Boltjes, Guy (Mary) Ekola, Lindy Ekola (David Jungst), Lindberg (Tracy) Ekola, and Eva Ekola (John Ojanen). They have 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Giles volunteered for the Army Air Force after he graduated from High School in 1945. Completing military service, he attended Michigan State University for one year. The following year he graduated from Suomi Jr. College (now known as Finlandia University). Giles graduated from Suomi Theological Seminary in 1952. In one more year he obtained a BA degree from Augustana College, Rock Island, IL. He was ordained in June 1953.

Pastor Ekola was called to preach the Word of God. He was 86 when he preached his last sermon. Giles was a very creative person – speaker, writer (books, articles, letters) inventor (two patents). He loved the land and animals (especially horses) and above all he loved people. He loved telling stories and hearing your stories.

A Private Funeral Service will be held held at a later date.

Memorials are preferred to Finlandia University in Hancock, MI, or St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Garfield.

To protect the health and safety of all, services are currently being limited as required by state and local authorities and the CDC. Expressions of sympathy during this time can be left on the condolences page available with the obituary on our website. Or mail a card here to the funeral home, which will be forwarded to the family. Check the funeral home website for the latest COVID-19 update.