Clarence "Jack" Paul

Jack Paul left his earthly life surrounded by his loving wife, Pat (Young), son, Matthew James and puppy, Faith, with a tear in his eye and joy in knowing his loving Father in Heaven was embracing him. Born to James and Nancy (Rossi) Paolelli, he lived a life extraordinaire with an entrepreneurial spirit. He was always sharing and teaching his talents to all who wanted to absorb his enthusiasm to give one’s all each day. He never stopped his journey to learn more and give back. He was gifted with a son by his late wife, Mary (Faulkner) Paul. He met his current wife in church in 1978 and they were married August 30, 1986. He gave his wife a special gift in that each year they renewed their vows with a special love.

At 14 he was unloading boxcars for Mars Candy Company to help the family. Joining the US Army – 1st Calvary, he ended up a SSgt. and served in Occupied Japan for the Japanese War Crimes. He spent some time as a front man for Frank Sinatra, designed locks for caskets, designed the first outside elevator for a company in Chicago, sold TV’s, grain elevators, and automotive test equipment. He also owned a hotel in Daytona, Florida where his passion for aviation took hold and learned to fly for the next 50 years. Jack helped to solve a rotor problem on helicopters during the Vietnam era, and had a phenomenal crew that designed and sold a diagnostic tracking system which was used by United Airlines, IDOT and the city of Chicago who called it “Magic”. He spent many a year building a plans built single engine Sidewinder (airplane). Jack was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Crystal Lake.

His love of life included being a Mason, serving on the Illinois Aviation Board, and serving as an Elder and Usher for his church. Jack was heavily involved with EAA in Oshkosh, Wisconsin and traveled the country with the Founder, Paul Probrezny while helping raise the initial seven million dollars to build the museum. For many years he worked the EAA Foundation Booth during their annual Air Show Convention.

Jack is survived by his wife, Pat; son, Matthew; (and puppy, Faith); sisters-in-law; many nieces and nephews; and great niece. He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law, Ed and Rosemary Young; wife, Mary; siblings, Joan and Rick; special brother-in-law, John; and sister and brother-in-law, Penny and Bob Braasch.

A special graveside service with military honors was held on Monday, September 13, 2021 at Union Cemetery, Crystal Lake.

Memorials in Jack’s name may be made to the EAA Aviation Foundation, P.O. Box 3086, Oshkosh, WI 54903.