Birth date: Dec 12, 1947 Death date: Mar 21, 2022
Kalevi Pukala passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 21, 2022. Born in Finland to Henri and Astrid Pukala, Kalevi was 74 years old. He grew up in Cinnaminson and spend the last 50 years living in Delran, NJ. Beloved husband of Read Obituary
1991-92 NJYHL Gladiator Midget A
I was thinking of Coach Puk this morning and decided to Google him to see what he's been to. I was sad to see that he had passed. As a former goaltender having played for Coach Puk for two seasons, I can say he was one of the most gentle men I ever met in my life. He never criticized nor yelled at his players, but took the time to teach us, and he always had a kind word for all of us after every game, win or lose. To his sons Mike (our goalie coach), Tom (who kept his goalies warmed up during practice), Marc (my teammate), and family, I offer my deepest condolences, and I know your Dad is up there in heaven forming a hockey team probably with Mr. Ettore.
The two years playing for your Dad we're some of the happiest days of my life. He will be missed.
CJ Quinn
I have many fond memories of spending time with Kal and his family. My deepest condolences to Tom, Mike, Marc and rest of the family.
Kal was the most easy going person I ever met. Also, very generous. When I needed help, he and Lee took me in and treated me like family. Even at my worst, he never looked down on me. Taught me there is more to life than letting the little things bother you. I will never forget the first years in training in the basement! Thank you Kal for all that you have done for me! Till we meet again!
Kal got along with everybody. He was one of the nicest guys I ever met. He'll be missed by many.
Mike Small
Grandpop brought kindness and love into the lives of everyone he met. So many people, including me, are better because they knew him.
He made growing up extra special with the trips out on the boat.. 4th of July when we couldn't figure out who's boat was drifting and it ended up being ours.. my first cruise and my first Vegas trip countless times to Atlantic city to gamble. All the holidays spent on suburban. You will be missed thankyou for the memories.
Grandpop was such a laid back easy going person. He was very giving and never turned anyone away in time of need. I will always remember how he invited in as his own grandkids. I chuckle as I think back on boating excursion we had as a family in the past and just talking over food and drinks after hockey games. He was a saint in his own right and will truly be missed.
