In Memoriam

Albert Inkala, Jr. (Girls Tennis Coach 1994-2013) VIEW PROFILE

Albert Allen Inkala, Jr. OHS Girls Tennis Coach 1994-2013

March 14, 1949 – June 20, 2015

Albert A. Inkala Jr. of Okemos, Michigan passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2015.

Al was a very special man, loving husband, caring father and adoring grandpa, devoted to his family - his whole reason for being. He was constantly thinking of ways to make others smile and be happy. Al was a well-respected mentor to his peers; always kind, compassionate and respectful. He has had a tremendously positive influence on countless students and athletes. A humble and giving individual, Al declined numerous accolades offered to him through the years.

Born in 1949 to Albert and Lois Inkala in Wakefield, Michigan, Albert was raised to become a well-known, admired young man, and exceptional athlete. Al graduated from Wakefield High School in 1967, earning 17 varsity letters, setting several scoring records in basketball, and achieving All-American status. He continued his education at Northern Michigan University on a full basketball scholarship, and graduated with a degree in Secondary Teacher Education. It was at NMU where Al first met his wife, Darlene, in the student union; they both knew it was love at first sight.

Al’s teaching career spanned more than 30 years; the majority of which were spent educating middle and high school students in Holt Public Schools. As a life-long teacher, Al continued to instruct students for over 20 years at Mr. R’s Driving School in Haslett. Al’s basketball coaching career began in Adrian Michigan, after which he acquired head basketball coaching positions in St. Claire and then Holt.

For 20 years he enjoyed coaching the Varsity Girls Tennis Team at Okemos High School, guiding the girls to 6 State Championships. He also assisted with the OHS Boys Tennis Teams. Al always focused on the needs of his athletes, both on and off the court, and had a gentle way of making each player feel important.

Al is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Darlene; daughters, Laurel (Caleb) Miller of East Lansing, and Alana (Jim) Pignataro of Okemos; brother, David Inkala and cherished grandchildren, Ella, Alison and Jimmy.

A celebration of Al’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, June 28, 2015 at Okemos Community Church, 4734 Okemos Rd., Okemos, MI. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Casual dress is requested. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations are made to the Al Inkala Memorial Scholarship Fund at the MSU Federal Credit Union, P.O. Box 1208, East Lansing, MI 48826.

The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Lansing. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.greastlansing.com.

Published August 11, 1994 Lansing State Journal