Paul Claeys, 75, of Long Grove, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024, following a brief illness.
Visitation was from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 29, at Schultz Funeral Home in DeWitt. Masonic and Eastern Star ceremonies will follow at 5 p.m. in the funeral home. Memorial Mass was held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 30, at St. Ann Catholic Church, Long Grove, with interment following in the church cemetery.
Paul David Claeys was born Sept. 20, 1949, in Davenport, to Maurice and Agnes (Walker) Claeys. After graduating from North Scott High School in 1968, he joined the National Guard, serving six years. Paul was united in marriage to Stephannie Roseland on March 3, 1973, at St. Ann Catholic Church in Long Grove. The couple resided in Long Grove, raising three children. Paul was a jack of all trades, working as a farmer, school bus driver, and mechanic, among many other things.
Paul was a member of St. Ann Catholic Church, the National Square Dance Camporee, the Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star. He enjoyed square dancing, camping, woodworking, boating, playing cards, and watching his children and grandchildren play sports. In early years, he enjoyed being a Boy Scout leader.
Surviving are his wife of 51 years, Stephannie; children, Christina (Anthony) of Davenport, Jeffrey (Kimberly) of Shawnee, Kan., and Matthew (Valerie) of Goose Creek, S.C.; grandchildren, Drake, Kinzie (Aaron), Kally (Hunter), Chance (Brittney), Nathaen, and Samantha; great-grandchildren, Paisley, Leilah, Lily, and Reed; sisters-in-law, Janice Claeys, and Margaret Claeys; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers.
Arrangements are in the care of Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt. Condolences may be expressed at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com.
Custom obituary