Paul Charles Humphrey

Paul Charles Humphrey passed away at home on Sunday, April 05, 2015. Born to modest means as the sixth of thirteen children to Gertrude Helene-Marie (Schroeder) and Joseph Andrew of the Southside of Chicago, IL, on April 6th, 1953. Paul attended parochial schools and graduated from Gregor Mendel Catholic Preparatory High School in Chicago. He received his draft card for the Army and enlisted in the USAF in 1971. Paul (also known as Humpo or even Chumpo to some) trained as a medical laboratory technologist. He also became an instructor of chemistry and micro-biology for the USAF accelerated training program. After 20 years of service, he retired from the USAF and began his next adventure. Paul is survived by his wife of 42 years, Josee Marie, his sons Frederick James (Stacy) and Joseph Gonell (Tiffani), and four grandchildren: Mason, Makenna, Parker, and Kaleb. Paul is also survived by ten siblings, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Paul's zest for life was insatiable. The number of hobbies he pursued were exceeded only by his efforts. Shortly after retiring from the service, he learned the construction trades under the tutelage of Glenn Borschardt. He and Glenn remodeled the family home from 900 sq. ft. to 2,200 sq. ft. in 1997. His skills of patience and precision were put to good use as a cabinet maker and wood-working craftsman. Paul also worked at DCH Laboratory where he would often be seen traveling the hospital corridors with a smile on his face and a song on his lips. He retired from DCH in 2009. The plethora of Paul's passions included golfing, gardening, theatre, bowling, billiards, darts, Chicago-style softball (16 inch), travel, and most importantly, time spent with family. His gardening skills were legendary, particularly with heirloom tomatoes. Accomplished thespian, singer, guitar player, bowler, billiards player, dart thrower, expert marksman, Chicago Softball (16 in), American Legion Post 50, Fraternal Order of the Masonic Lodge - golfer, wordsmith, global traveler, and Papa. He performed in over a dozen theater productions, but his most cherished, most celebrated role was that of the humble dairy-man, Tevye, from Fiddler on the Roof. Paul used his unmistakable resonating bass voice and devoted his comedic and dramatic energies to deliver an unmatched performance for this role. This earned him the award of Best Chicago Area Actor in 1995. His final appearance on stage was as Fagin in the Iron Mountain Performing Arts Center's production of Oliver in 2010. Paul lived each day as if it were his last. Ever the eternal optimist, his glass was always half-full. His sense of humor enabled many to laugh at the obstacles and challenges of life. He was particularly adept at causing his grandchildren to squeal with laughter. A visit to Papa's was always an adventure. He greatest joy was his grandchildren. He looked forward to every visit with anticipation. His bright blue, crystal-like eyes shone a particular twinkle as he pondered the new password for entry into the "secret garden", where his prized heirloom tomatoes grew and even deer could not find access. He ministered to many by offering counsel to those who requested it within his open-air church: Timberstone Golf Course. Paul especially enjoyed golf with his buddy "Chuckie". He would freely admit he was not a scratch golfer, but he would challenge anyone who played alongside him to improve not only their score, or style of play, but more importantly - their character. Any personal shortcomings he possessed or obstacles presented to him were prevailed upon by his sheer intensity of will and discipline of his efforts. He spoke English and German fluently with ease, and his conjugation of Latin verbs were not to be trifled. A gregarious and magnanimous man, he was as much at home among the Germans in Krames and Sahlem enjoying Bitburger Pils as he was sipping Pilsner Uquell in Czechoslovakia, as he was around a camp-fire in Skandia, Michigan, while playing guitar to a gathering of friends below the undulating Northern Lights. He found the humanity in those whom others had cast aside. As a member of Iron Mountain Masonic Lodge 388, Paul freely gave his time in various ways and relished the service he provided through his active participation in the Fraternal Order of Masons. He achieved the rank of Master Mason. Paul brought forth his organizing skills to improve efficiency for the seasonal pasty-making fundraiser. Interactions with the savvy pasty-making crew was one of his most enjoyed activities. He was also a member of the Uren-Cooper-Johnson American Legion Post #50. Referencing the words attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, "Preach the Gospel, always. When necessary, use words." Paul consistently provided help to anyone in need not by force or fear, but by choice. A man comfortable in his own skin, he had a hop in his step when wandering through Detroit at midnight with Bob Thomas, a sharpness of gait when conducting his business or military affairs, and a peace found only by those who are emboldened by a zest for life. Passionate about learning, he told stories of summers spent in his youth exploring the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, never tiring of the plethora of exhibits. Stories of his respect for learning and the sciences were kindled by his instructors at Gregor Mendel High School and burst into flames as he taught his students in the Air Force. Family, God, and Country - these he valued above all. QUOTE: "May the might of destiny grant me The supreme ecstasy of earthly joy, The highest goal of earthly ecstasy, That of seeing, when I arise from the tomb, My art thriving peacefully Among those who are to come after me." - Gregor Mendel MOTTO: "What, me worry?" - Alfred E. Newman Paul will be greatly missed. His presence has left an indelible imprint on all who knew him. In lieu of flowers the family requests making a donation to your favorite charity. Visitation will be Friday from 4-7pm at Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home. Masonic services will be Friday night at 6:45 at the funeral home with a prayer service immediately following. Funeral services will be Sat. at 1pm at St. Mary Catholic Church in Norway. Father Tim Ekaitis will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will be in Cemetery Park. Graveside military rites will be accorded by the Uren-Cooper-Johnson American Legion Post #50. Condolences to the family of Paul Humphrey can be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home with the arrangements.

Paul Charles Humphrey

April 6, 1953 - April 5, 2015