PENCE, Wis. — Paula Irene (Vuorenmaa) Manzanares, 57, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on May 2, 2025. She was being cared for by her fiancé and "rock" of 16 years, Steve Korpela.
Paula was born July 22, 1967, in Ironwood, Michigan, to parents Harold and Irene Vuorenmaa. She attended Luther L. Wright High School and graduated in 1985.
Like a true Vuorenmaa, Paula was a hard worker and had a lot of "sisu". She was quick to help those who were in need, often without hesitation. Paula enjoyed softball, bowling, gardening, taking care of her animals, spending time with family and friends and being a "Mummu/Gamma" to her grandchildren.
Paula is survived by her children, Matt Manzanares and Miranda (Casey) Smith; fiancé, Steve Korpela and his son, Steven (Sarah) Korpela II; five loving grandchildren; mother, Irene H. Vuorenmaa; brother, David (Kandy) Vuorenmaa; sister, Maria Liisa (Darrel) Detwiler; nieces and nephews; numerous cousins; and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Harold O. Vuorenmaa.
Following her wishes, Paula has been cremated. A funeral service will be held at St. John's Lutheran Church on May 24, at 11 a.m., visitation will begin at 10 a.m.. A luncheon will follow the service at St. John's Lutheran Church.
Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, Michigan, is supporting the family with the arrangements.