CHAMPAIGN – Paul Gregory Idleman, 57, of Champaign died Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2006, at his rural home in White Heath. He was born on Feb. 17, 1949, the son of Mary A. Idleman and Elmer Lewis Idleman. He married his high school sweetheart, Meredith Susan Wegrich, on Aug. 13, 1967. Paul was a graduate of Champaign Central High School and earned a degree in fine arts from Parkland College. Paul's love of the arts led him to Colorado, where he pursued a career in photography and graphic arts. Historical research of a 19th-century photographer led him to become the director of the Old Colorado City Historical Society in Manitou Springs, Colo., and later led him to move back to the Champaign area to serve as the director of the Champaign County Historical Museum.

Paul was a devoted community servant and volunteered his time and resources as chair of Public Relations for the American Cancer Society in Colorado Springs, Colo. He contributed to many charities and organized benefits for friends in need. He also did pro bono public relations work for the Pikes Peak Cog Railway and the Penrose Library in Colorado Springs.

Paul appeared in many television segments about historical events and produced and directed a historical video that appeared on the History Channel. He also edited and published several books.

An exhibit of his concert photographs was recently displayed at the Orpheum Theater.

Paul was a loving son, husband, brother, father and grandfather. He is survived by his father, E.L.(Elizabeth) Idleman of Oakwood; his mother and stepfather, Mary A. Idleman and Charles Cobb of Cherokee Village, Ariz.; his wife, Sue Idleman of rural White Heath; his brothers, Robert E. (Olga) Idleman of Champaign and Thomas J. (Debbie) Idleman of Woodland Park, Colo.; his children, Mindy S. (Ron) Jones of ElDorado, Kan., and his son, Bryan D. (Kristin) Idleman of Higley, Ariz. Paul is also survived by three granddaughters, Delaney Jones, Peyton Idleman and Erin Idleman.

A memorial service for Paul will be held at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St., Champaign, on Saturday, Dec. 23, 2006, at 2 p.m. Pastor Timothy Hubert will officiate. Friends may greet the family from 1 to 2 p.m.