MARJA LORRAINE AHOLA, age 68, passed away on August 29, 2026. Marja leaves behind her best friend, who was a sister to her, Robin Pianowski; Robin’s daughter, Janie Starcher; and beloved "yaya" of Sunny Starcher and Marina Starcher.

She also leaves behind her brothers, Jeff Ahola, Mark Ahola (Diane), and Scott Ahola (Sharon). Marja was an aunt, great-aunt, and friend to so many.

Marja grew up in Avon Lake, Ohio, where she attended Avon Lake High School. After graduating, she attended The University of Akron, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. She then went to work for her family's company, The Ahola Payroll Corporation, where she eventually became an owner alongside her three brothers for 40 years. The Ahola Payroll Corporation has grown to become — and remains — the largest family-owned and operated payroll services company in the United States.

Marja especially loved spending time with Sunny and Marina; they were the absolute joy of her life. She attended every softball game, dance recital, track meet, graduation, birthday party, prom, and homecoming — Marja was one of their biggest cheerleaders at every single event.

Marja was also a longtime member of a bowling league, traveling near and far for tournaments, and was a devoted fan of all Cleveland sports teams. In retirement, she discovered a love of creating art, taking painting classes and frequenting Hands on Pottery to craft beautiful glass pieces. She also began traveling almost weekly to Mountaineer Casino in West Virginia, where she enjoyed playing her favorite card game, Let It Ride. The Mountaineer staff became like a second family to her.

Marja was the most loving, kind, generous, and sweet person you could ever meet. She will be missed dearly by everyone who knew her.

Friends may call at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME, 356 WEST AURORA RD. (OH RT 82), SAGAMORE HILLS where funeral services will be celebrated on Friday at 11:00 a.m. VISITATION ON THURSDAY FROM 2-4 AND 6-8 P.M.