Michelle Marie Paavola passed away on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the age of 54, after being diagnosed with lung cancer in early 2026.
Michelle was born on September 19, 1971, in Torrance, Calif., to Cindy Sundal and John Paavola. While in high school, she met the love of her life, Rueben. They married in 1992 and shared 38 wonderful years together.
After graduating from UC Irvine in 1993, Michelle earned her Doctor of Medicine from the Robert Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont in 2009. She practiced family medicine for 16 years, including 12 years at the UVM Student Health Center, before opening her own private medical practice, New Bloom Health Center, in 2025. Michelle practiced medicine with compassion and empathy, making every patient feel heard, valued and respected.
Despite the challenges she faced, Michelle went through life with a smile. Her positivity remained unwavering, even during cancer treatment, inspiring those around her. Above all, she was a devoted wife and mother who always put others before herself and was her family’s biggest supporter.
Outside of work, Michelle loved spending time with family and enjoyed gardening, hiking, kayaking and DIY projects around the house.
Michelle is survived by her husband, Rueben; her children, Kevin, Maya, Krosbie and Lola; and her brother, Tom.
A funeral Mass honoring Michelle will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, 11 a.m., at the Catholic Center at UVM, with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society.
This article appears in August 5 • 2026.
I’m so heartfully sorry to hear about Dr. Paavola’s passing. She was a kind, compassionate physician who really did connect with her patients. My deepest condolences to her family; I feel blessed to have met her.