Jeff Kristola

Jeff Eric Kristola age 60 of Rogers City passed away unexpectedly at MyMichigan Health Center in Alpena on July 8, 2024.

He was born in Pontiac on October 21, 1963 to John and Lila (Wiitala) Kristola.

Jeff graduated from Hartland High School in 1982. He attended Lake Superior State University and was on their tennis team and a proud member of Delta Sigma Phi. On November 29, 1986 he married his college sweetheart, Gail Kortman, at St. John Lutheran Church. Prior to owning the Hide Away Tavern and Grill, he managed several restaurants. Jeff had a passion for playing golf, to the point of playing by himself and walking the course. He enjoyed playing Euchre when he wasn’t on the course. He had a great sense of humor and a vast knowledge of sports and 80’s music facts. Jeff was happiest when he was spoiling his daughters and granddaughters.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Gail; two daughters, Darcie (Victor) Fairley of Grand Rapids and Kellie Kristola of Alpena; two granddaughters, Brielle and Journey; three siblings, Jay (Gretchen) Kristola of Houghton, Lauri (Dave) Trapp of Whitmore Lake and Tina (Larry) Jenks of Fowlerville; and many nieces and nephews.

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lila.

Friends may visit at the Beck Funeral Home on Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. Visitation will resume on Thursday at Peace Lutheran Church from 10 a.m. until time of his funeral at 11 a.m.

Burial will follow at Peace Lutheran Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to Peace Lutheran Church or Cheboygan Humane Society in memory of Jeff Kristola.