Paul Michael Ehrlich

Paul Michael Ehrlich was called to his heavenly home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, at the age of 92 years.

He was born on Aug. 11, 1932, in New Lenox, Ill., to parents Max and Margaret (nee Behringer) Ehrlich.

Paul graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in architecture. While there, Paul was a member of the fraternity Alpha Rho Chi (APX).

While a student, Paul also served in the U.S. Navy Reserves. He was then called to active duty during the Korean War.

After the war, Paul returned to the United States and on a blind date he met his first love, Esther Pantaleo. They married on Aug. 16, 1958, in Chicago, Ill. They soon moved to Port Washington, where they raised their seven children.

After moving to Port Washington, Paul joined Blong, Kempf and Schmidt Architects, where he worked tirelessly, and eventually he bought into, and became president of, the firm known today as Ehrlich, Genson and Associates. This very successful firm was in business for more than 60 years and was a staple in the community, serving the greater Port Washington area. Throughout his career, he worked on numerous well known buildings such as St. Peter of Alcantara Church, Port Washington State Bank, Wilson House, City Hall, the police and fire stations, W.J. Niederkorn Library and many more.

Paul was an active member of the community, serving as president of the Windjammers Drum and Bugle Corps, Greater Port Washington Kiwanis Club, Knights of Columbus and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Following the untimely death of Esther, Paul met Sally Rae Schirk at a Kiwanis Convention. On Oct. 13, 2001, Paul married Sally Rae Schirk from Iron Mountain, Mich. Together they enjoyed retirement and spending time with their many grandchildren.

Paul is survived by his children Michelle (Dan) Luba, Maria (Rick) Nuedling, Marleen (Don) Ehrlich-Johnson, Teresa Ehrlich, Hans (Melody) Ehrlich, Michael (Carrie) Ehrlich and Krista (Joel) Gunnlaugsson. He is further survived by his 26 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and many loved friends and relatives.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents Max and Margaret, wives Esther and Sally and brothers Ralph and Max.

A visitation for Paul will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, at Eernisse Funeral Home, 1600 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington, WI 53074. Visitation will continue at the funeral home on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. John XXIII Catholic Parish, St. Peter of Alcantara Church, 1800 Wisconsin St., Port Washington. Father Patrick Wendt will preside over the Mass.

Paul will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Port Washington.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Greater Port Washington Kiwanis Club or the Knights of Columbus would be greatly appreciated.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Harbor Club, Aurora Medical Center and Allay Hospice for their care and compassion.

Eernisse Funeral Home is kindly assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.