Paul Taylor

Mr. Paul Taylor of Port Washington passed away at Lincoln Village on Nov. 2, 2024, at age 86 surrounded by family and love.

Paul was born in Park Falls, Wis., on Aug. 21, 1938, the son of Floyd Taylor and Paulina (Dombeck).

His family moved to Wisconsin Rapids in 1941, where he attended local schools.

Paul proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1957 until he was honorably discharged in 1961.

On May 12, 1962, Paul was united in marriage with Mary Link at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Wisconsin Rapids. The couple settled in Wautoma and began their family. They moved to their home on Montgomery Street in Port Washington in the late 1960s.

Paul dedicated much of his life to serving his community as the custodian of St. Mary’s Catholic Church Parish and School, where his kindness and friendliness made a lasting impression on students and families alike. Known for his unwavering commitment, he would often snowplow the church entrance to ensure everyone could attend services, reflecting his deep care for others. He could also be found lending a hand, whether it was setting up tables for school events or climbing up to fix the bell tower.

After retiring, he continued to serve as the sexton at the local cemetery, providing compassionate support to families during their time of need.

His joyful spirit and dedication to helping others will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, always present at family events and celebrating every achievement, whether in sports or personal milestones.

A passionate fan of Wisconsin sports teams, he cheered for the Packers, Badgers, Brewers and Bucks, sharing that joy with his loved ones.

His unwavering commitment to family and community created countless cherished memories that will be treasured forever.

Those left to cherish Paul’s memory include his daughter Amy Donfris of Cary, Ill., his daughter-in-law Debbie Taylor of Grafton, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is further survived by sister Doris Krause and sister-in-law Phillis Taylor of Wisconsin Rapids, as well as numerous family members and friends.

He was proceeded in death by his parents; his wife Mary; his son Jeff; son-in-law Dennis Donfris; two sisters, Evelyn Schuetz (late Jim) and Norma Putnam (late Don); brother Floyd Taylor; and brother-in-law Bob Krause.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at noon Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at St. John XXIII Catholic Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 451 N. Johnson St., Port Washington, WI 53074. The family will receive visitors at the church from 10:30 a.m. until the service.

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

Eernisse Funeral Home of Port Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

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