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Paul Grahl Obituary
Paul F. and Joanna M. Grahl of Eden, went Home to meet their Savior, Thursday, September 13, 2012.
Paul was born on July 24, 1939, in Fond du Lac, a son of Theodore P. and Grace E.E. Bastian Grahl. Joanna was born on September 5, 1953, in Fond du Lac, a daughter of Harold W. and Erma G. Alve Wurtz.
Paul graduated from Campbellsport High School and Joanna graduated from L.P. Goodrich High School, Fond du Lac.
On September 27, 1974, they were united in marriage.
Paul raised mink and worked at Mercury Marine for several years until he expanded his ice fishing hobby into a full time business, known today as HT Enterprises. Joanna supported Paul with the business and also was a full-time homemaker. They made their fishing business their mission field for the Lord.
They are survived by their daughter, Esther Grahl; Paul's two sons from a previous marriage, Nathaniel (Diane) Grahl and Kenneth (Becky) Grahl; five grandchildren, Michael, Maria, Andrew, Matthew, and Austin Grahl; Paul's two sisters, Patricia (Tom Michler) Swast and Sharon Garthwaite; Joanna's two sisters, Karen Hayward and Rondi (Anthony) Terrascino;
her brother, Jeffery (Charlene) Wurtz; nieces and nephews.
They were preceded in death by their parents; Paul's two brothers-in-law, Stanley Swast and Edward Garthwaite.
The funeral service will be at 4 p.m. on Friday, September 21, 2012, at Lighthouse Christian Church, 401 South National Avenue, Fond du Lac, with Rev. Brent Balken and Rev. Paul Pfeffer officiating. The visitation will be on Friday at church from noon until the time of service. Burial will be at Empire Cemetery.
Mach Funeral Chapel & Crematory is serving the family. A guest register can be found at www.machfuneralchapel.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paul Grahl
Carolyn Schorse
September 9, 2022
We miss you dearly
Bradley Prenevost
September 9, 2020
Paul was a good story teller and always had the Gospel in it. His smile could light up the room. He truly loved his family and the last time I talked with him he was looking for a business startup that he could provide a ready income for Esther. I had Hope's of spending much more time with Paul and the family especially after leaving China. Maybe do some ministry together in China. I am sure the Father, our savior have the doing his on the other side of eternity. God bless ando strengthen you Esther and all the family. Love and miss you all.
Mary McLean
September 9, 2019
Remembering Paul and Joanna and their love for each other, their family and most of all their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The years pass quickly but the memories live on. Condolences especial to Nate, Ken and Esther.
Carolyn Schorse
September 9, 2019
JoAnna and Paul left behind a wonderful legacy of faith in Christ and sharing their faith and the hope of salvation with others. They also left behind their wonderful children and grandchildren. The special name Esther that they gave the apple of their eyes in their last years is shared with my daughter so i always think of her fondly and remember her and your family often and pray for them. May God continue to bless, encourage, and keep each of you on His path until you reach eternity. Blessings
September 30, 2012
We were so very sorry to hear of Paul and Joanna's passing. They were such a loving, caring and giving couple who were so very proud of their family. We are glad they both were able to enjoy together the business venture they started years ago. Our sincere sympathy to their children, grandchildren, sisters and brother.
Dick and Millie Wurtz
(Son of Freeland Wurtz)
Sun Lakes, AZ
Marna Sorensen
September 28, 2012
Joanna has been my friend since second grade. I will miss her a great deal and my heart aches for Esther.
Morris and Mary McLean
September 23, 2012
Morris and I are saddened to hear of the death of your Dad and Mom. Morris met your Dad 50+ years ago when they both were at a Youth for Christ directors school in Chicago. Your Mom and Dad were wonderful people who lived what they believed and believed what they lived. Know that our prayers are with you at this time.
Bradley Prenevost
September 22, 2012
We want you to know that you and Ester have been in our prayers since the day we heard of their leaving. Paul and Joanna meant so much to us. They held speical places in our hearts, they are missed greatly. We know they are rejoicing with their savior, knowing all will be handled by Him!
Bradley and Terriann Prenevost and family
Jerry & Sue Sabel
September 21, 2012
So sorry to hear of your loss, our prayers go out to your family at this difficult time.
Ruth Gremminger
September 21, 2012
My deepest sympathies. Paul was a good friend in high school and I looked forward to seeing him at class reunions. I met Joanna at a class reunion and she was a lovely lady in all ways. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
Kevin and Danielle Pettit
September 21, 2012
Thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
Rick Jaeger
September 21, 2012
Dear Ken, Nate& Ester,
So sorry to hear about your Dad & Mother's tragic accident.They were really good people and will be missed by many. You have my deepest sympathy and know you will be in my prayers and thoughts.
Sincerely,
Gary & Karen Gruenwald
September 21, 2012
Hold on to your memories, and let them guide you during this time of sadness.
Don and Diana Magnuson
September 21, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all. We were so sorry to here of this terrible accident. Our deepest sympathy. May your memories be your blessing and bring comfort. God be with you.
Roger & Jackie Freund
September 21, 2012
Ken, Nate, Esther and Family we are so sorry about the tragic accident and the loss of two loving and caring parents. Our Lord and Saviour will have His protected arms around each of you and see you though this difficult time. Remember that your mom & dad are walking the streets of gold with our Lord. Our prayers are for Esther to have a full recovery. God Bless each of you.
Carolyn Schorse
September 20, 2012
Through the years we saw each other regularly, especially getting together with our two beloved Esthers.
Your warm hearts and faithful service to the Lord were an inspiration to us and many others.
You will be dearly missed. Our prayers are with your family.
Mark and Carolyn Schorse and Esther and family
Jim Peterson
September 20, 2012
Nate, Ken & Esther,
Words fall short of being able to express my sincere condolences. Paul & Joanna were people that leave a permanent impression on your life. The memories I have from all those years, all the joys and sorrows shared remain a treasure for me. The world is a better place because Paul & Joanna walked among us.
Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May God send His healing spirit to you all.
September 20, 2012
I, LARRY PIERCE AND MY WIFE PHYLLIS MET PAUL AND JOANNA IN CHINA LAST NOVEMBER. PAUL WAS EXCEPTIONALLY KIND TO ME IN A COMMERCIAL MATTER IN CHINA AND IT WAS EVIDENT TO US THAT HE WAS A FINE CHRISTIAN GENTLEMAN AND A FRIEND REALLY WORTH HAVING. THOUGH WE KNEW THEM BUT A SHORT TIME, WE FEEL A DEEP SENSE OF LOSS AND SEND OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY
Jimmy & Chris Houston
September 20, 2012
Ken & Nate,
Our hearts ache for your painful loss. Nothing we can say can take away the pain, but please know that we truly share in your pain and are praying for God's grace to surround the family and to carry you through this very difficult time. Your father was such a sweet, special person - still hard to believe this has happened. I know your strong faith will sustain you and give you the comfort that you need. We send our love and prayers to Esther for her comfort and recovery also.
May God's Amazing Grace be with all of you.
Ty Sjodin
September 20, 2012
I'm very saddened by the tragic loss of such a gentle and giving couple. Paul and Joanna will be very missed.
We here at Babe Winkelman Productions send our thoughts and prayers out to the Grahl family and we hope for a full recovery of their daughter. God Bless!!
September 20, 2012
You are in our thoughts, missing mixed with tears forever from Taiwan.
Frank, Sofia & Paul Lin
Jeff & Justine Abitz
September 20, 2012
The smile on your face is a lasting memory in our hearts, nothing in this world not even life or death can keep us apart, we'll be together again one day. We want to say thank you for being the best that you could be, you're our confidant, our best friend, the head of our family, now it is time that you can finally stop worrying about us, you can relax, have fun, you no longer need to fuss, we know that if we need you, you'll be here by our side. We believe that even though you're not here with us this will never be goodbye, we will see you soon. Always in our hearts & prayers.
John Kruse
September 20, 2012
I remember Paul as a customer of mine when I worked at Georgia Pacific Corp in Oshkosh. He was a very kind man and loving father. He brought his daughter Esther to GP one day, as he was working on a project selling shoes for children.
I am so sorry for the family's loss.
Barbara Klockow
September 19, 2012
Karen and Rondi, we send our heartfelt sympathy in the tragic loss of Joanna and Paul. When Esther was about 3, we stopped in with some Wurtz photos for your mother. We had a lovely visit. Our prayers for Esther's recovery. Barbara Klockow
Bob and Roberta Marx
September 19, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Mary Neitzel
September 19, 2012
My deepest sympathies to you Nate, Ken, & Ester. My prayers are with you and especially for Ester for a quick recovery.
Sam & Lisa Kaufman
September 19, 2012
There are no words that can express the loss this world has sustained with the death of Paul & Joanna. My pleasure is that I and my wife, Lisa, have had the honor of knowing them through their prior attendance at Trnity Baptist Church and my daughters', Ashley, friendship with Esther. They were a joy to talk to and we were blessed by their friendship. They will be sadly missed, but we as Christians find joy in knowing that we will see them again. Our prayers to the family for their loss and for a speedy recovery for Esther.
Marilyn McLeod
September 19, 2012
My Dad (Mac) was a mink rancher who knew your father. My dad passed away a year ago. I wanted to send my condolences to your entire family over your significant Loss!
Rest in Peace to Paul and Joanna Grahl!
Ruth Ann Wurtz
September 19, 2012
What a loss, I am so sorry for the family. I met Paul & Joanna years ago when still living in FDL, my father-in-law was Freeland Wurtz, brother of Harold. What a tragic loss of such kind and caring people.
Carla Behnke
September 19, 2012
Dear Pat and Tom,
I was so sorry to hear from my mom about this tragic loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless,
Carla
Wil Wegman
September 19, 2012
I'll always cherish ice fishing Lake Simcoe with Paul when he was up here a few years ago ... it was truly an honor.
My thoughts and prayers are with the whole family ... and his extended family at HT.
Wil
Jeff & Donna Saylor
September 19, 2012
Our sympathies on your loss. They will be missed deeply at Swast family events.
Paul and Judy (Seibel) Noe
September 18, 2012
We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of Paul and Joanna. Our thoughts and prayers are with you daily.
Boyd and Barb Neaveill
September 18, 2012
Sorry for your loss. Your family is in our prayers..
Alan Poepping
September 18, 2012
You will both be greatly missed
Jin Besenfelder
September 18, 2012
Ester, Nate and Ken,
All of us at In-Fisherman were deeply, deeply saddened by the loss of Paul and Joanna. Paul came to our office in the early 80's and pitched a new type of ice fishing to Al & Ron Lindner and Doug Stange. In a short period of time he changed the face of ice fishing. He is indeed the face of modern ice fishing. When he came to In-Fisherman either by himself or with Joanna, He always greeted you with a big smile and a hug. In a short time he managed to meet and remember just about everyone. If Paul was your friend it was forever. He was a kind and gentle man who was well prepared for the next part of his life. Paul will never be forgotten, but remembering him will make us all better people. We are praying for Ester that she makes a full recovery.
In-Fisherman staff
Dorothy Wilke
September 18, 2012
My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Jim Ziebarth
September 18, 2012
My sincerest condolences to the Grahl Family - May God watch over you, Esther, as you recover and find your place in this world.
Jesse Konold
September 18, 2012
The South Dakota fishing community was deeply saddened to hear of Paul and Joanna's passing. The pioneers of a great sport that is loved by many will be missed. I did not have the privilege to meet them in person but certainly will think of them as I am reeling in a walleye. May your hook always be baited, line tight, rod bent, and net full.
Stan Kocos
September 17, 2012
My deepest condolences to the family on the loss of two wonderful people. Paul was undoubtedly the kindest man I ever knew and the many enjoyable hours spent with him, his guitar and gentle voice will stay with me always.
The Bryant Family
September 17, 2012
Until we meet again, you both will deeply be missed. We were quite happy that Joanna's blood infection was healed, and were so intrigued of Paul's unique and wonderful overseas business ministry. We loved hearing his shared and empassioned stories, testimonies, and experiences. Above and beyond that, our prayers are invested and embraced with Ester, her complete physical recovery, her new family, and their full Christian development. May all the needed forgivenesses be granted unconditionally, and because of this tragedy - may our Father, our Saviour and our Lord further His grace and increase His Kingdom with all walks of life so affected. May we all learn from this experience. And with grace, may we desire forth to edify one another, as Christ has so commanded us into His reconciliaton process. May we all keep our focus, our hearts, our minds, and our eyes continually gleaned on Jesus and His wisdom. May His bands of angels uphold us, and may we all have a great eternity in Him. Sincerely with love, and in the embodiment of the Triune Godhead, may we all be redeemed, blessed, learned, and read as craftable, dedicated agents in His service to the world,
David King
September 17, 2012
I met and fished with Paul this past winter and he touched my life. One of the sweetest spirited people I've ever met. Blessings to the family as Paul and Joanna are now partaking in their eternal reward!
Starla O'Brien
September 17, 2012
Our Deepest Sympathy and our prayers are with all of you at this time.
Wenzlaff family
September 17, 2012
Our deepest sympathy to the family. You are in our prayers.
Lyndell Newby
September 17, 2012
Ken and the entire Grahl Family, I was saddened to hear about the death of your dad and his wife. May they soar with the angels now and know you are all in our thoughts and prayers
Dave & Mary LaPine
September 17, 2012
Our Deepest Sympathy to the family. Paul and Joanna were great people and aways had a prayer for us. We will miss the Christmas letters.
Dave Young, Paul Grahl & Mike Bodecker. Lake Thompson 12/2011. Thanks for the memories.
Steph Sissell
September 17, 2012
Michael Jett
September 17, 2012
My deepest sympathy to your family. Your family is in my prayers.
Becky, Katie Nett and Family
September 17, 2012
Maria we are sorry to hear about your Grandparents! May the Lord help ease your sorrow. Remember this is not Goodbye it is "Till we Meet again"! Cheerish your memories of them. God bless you and your family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Becky,Katie Nett and Family
September 17, 2012
Maria we are sorry to hear about your Grandparents! May the Lord help ease your sorrow. Remember this is not Goodbye it is "Till we Meet again"! Cheerish your memories of them. God bless you and your family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Steph Sissell
September 17, 2012
R.I.P. Paul & Joanna.
Save some fish for me my friend.
My prayers are with your family.
Stephen Speidel DDS
September 17, 2012
Our Deepest Sympathy to the Grahl family. It was a honor to have met Paul and Joanna. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dr. Steve Speidel and Staff
Kim Galske
September 17, 2012
Paul and Joanna- two of the kindest people you'll ever meet. Paul I will miss having coffee with you my friend. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to meet you. God Bless
Janis & Jim Rinas
September 16, 2012
Deepest sympathy to your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Richard and Paulette Neis
September 16, 2012
Our thoughts and love go to the family for a very gentle man I worked with at Mercury, who shared his dream of HT. May God Bless
Dan and Lisa Haas
September 16, 2012
Our deepest sympathy and sadness. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim, Chris & Riley Ancil
September 16, 2012
Thoughts and prayers to all of you.
Skeeter Abrahamson
September 16, 2012
My heart goes out to the entire Grahl family. I pray that you to find comfort and strength in this difficult time. So deeply sorry for your loss.
September 16, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. May God's graciousness comfort your family in your time of sorrow.
Ron and Dolores, Al and Mary Lindner and families
September 16, 2012
Our deepest sympathy goes out to beautiful Esther Grace, Nate and Kenny and their families for this tragic loss. Paul and Joannas' faithfulness have touched so many hearts from USA to China. We thank God for the assurance that you all have, and us also that they are with our GOD. They will be dearly missed by all. Our Love and our prayers reach out to you.
Sherryl Gishkowsky
September 16, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to all the members of the Grahl family in this time of mourning.
September 16, 2012
Our prayers are with all the family' so sorry for your great loss.
Tom & Carol Schneider
September 16, 2012
Diane and Nate,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our hearts are hurting for you. You are in our prayers. Pat and Mary McAuly
Judy Wenzel
September 16, 2012
Thoughts and prayers go out to the Grahl family at this tragic time.
Barbara Ryan
September 16, 2012
Dearest Nate, Kenny, Esther,& family: I cannot express the deep sorrow that I feel for the loss of your parents and my 2 very good friends. They will be so sadly missed. My love and prayers are with you always....
Mary Ann & George
September 16, 2012
Sharon & Pat and all family members. Sharon, my heart aches for you and Pat. How quickly life changes. Our Lord said "I am with you always, even to the end of time". You have a strong faith which will give you the strength to console and be consoled during this very difficult time. Peace be with your brother and wife, and prayers & love for their precious daughter. Here always. With sincere sympathy, prayers, and love.
Thomas Welak
September 16, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Alex Soyk
September 16, 2012
I am sorry of your lost. I know what it is like to lose someone in a tragic accident like this. I will keep the family in my thoughts and prayers and I will continue to pray for Ester to make a speedy recovery
Alexandra St. James
September 16, 2012
We are all extremely saddened by this tragic loss. Our sympathy, our thoughts and our prayers are with you all.
Love,
your cousins from Kenosha/Racine, WI
Aunt Millie, Lynne & family, Anne & Alex(Sandy)
Joyce & Bill Vorpahl
September 16, 2012
To Nate, Diane and all of your family. We were so saddened at the loss of your parents in such a tragic way. May God grant you comfort in this sorrowful time. Prayers for you and for Esther's recovery.
Pamela Faeh
September 16, 2012
Our prayers are with your family. We are continuing to pray for Ester. I send my condolences from my sister Ingrid Grahl and parents, Phil and Sigrid Grahl who ar out of the country. May God bless and keep your family.
Michele Schneeberg
September 16, 2012
My deepest sympathies. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
September 16, 2012
Ken, Nate, Esther and Families,
Very sorry for the loss of your parents. May you find strength and comfort in the Lord, knowing the are already with Him.
John LaFleur (Hartland, WI)
Jim Vollmer
September 16, 2012
Deepest sympathy to Nate and Ken, and the entire family.
Marlend & Linda Bearwald
September 16, 2012
May God comfort all of you at this most difficult time and bring healing and peace to your hearts. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all. Marlend & Linda.
Betty & Jason Ferber
September 15, 2012
Nate, Ken & Family ~
Our deepest sympathies for your loss. Words can not express how sorry we were to hear this! Paul & Johanna were always so kind.
Donna Ziegler
September 15, 2012
May all the wonderful memories you have of Paul and Joanna help you through this difficult time. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
September 15, 2012
Jesus lives! The victory's won!
Death no longer can appall me;
Jesus lives! Death's reign is done!
From the grave will Christ recall me.
Brighter scenes will then commence;
This shall be my confidence.
Jesus Lives! To him the throne
There above all things is given.
I shall go where he is gone,
Live and reign with him in heaven.
God is faithful; doubtings, hence!
This shall be my confidence.
Randy & Colleen Karoses
September 15, 2012
Ken and family, Nate and family, & Esther
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Paul and Joanna will be deeply missed by all.
Randy and Colleen Karoses
and
Thursday morning mens bible group
Gary & Ann Bennis
September 15, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together. Our thoughts and many prayers are with you.
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