Paul William Foresman

Paul Foresman, 80, passed away at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO on March 30th, 2026, following complications from illness. Paul was born September 25th, 1945, to Fay and Mildred Foresman.
As a child, he spent much of his time with his grandparents at their restaurant where he grew a great culinary passion that he would carry with him throughout his years.
Paul married Judy Ann Kraus on June 3rd, 1967. They were married 46 years until her passing in 2013 in Springfield, MO. Paul and Judy had 2 daughters, Beth (Howard) Ponder and Keri (Joseph) Buatte. Both of Springfield, MO.
Paul was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, who worked tirelessly to ensure his family was always taken care of. His number one priority was his family. After graduating high school, Paul joined the Navy for 4 years before following his culinary passion by entering the Hospitality industry where he devoted the next 50 plus years to leadership roles creating the best dining experience for all guests. His lifelong dream was to own his own restaurant, and as his final career step he opened Jackson Street Deli in Willard, MO, where he enjoyed serving the local residents and creating meals that were loved by all. Town gossip has it that he made the best Reuben sandwiches.
When Paul wasn't creating mealtime masterpieces, you could always find him working in his yard, volunteering for the Knights of Columbus, he especially enjoyed working Bingo nights for the organization and getting to know all the people. He loved taking road trips, enjoying the beautiful Ozarks and finding quaint diners along the way. But what brought him the most joy was spending time with his grandchildren. For Paul, who was typically a very serious man by nature, it was always exciting to watch him entertain his grandchildren by dressing up as Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. Being silly is something he saved just for them.
Paul was preceded in death by his wife Judy, parents, brothers-in-law Lynn Kraus, Jeff Kraus, Clay Hutsell and nephew Ed Hutsell.
Paul is survived by his daughters, Beth Ponder and husband Howard, Keri Buatte and husband Joe, Sister Bonnie Hutsell, Grandchildren Aryal (Kaleb) Hughey, Austin Foresman, Caleb Cron, Nick Ponder, Jenna Ponder and Dallas Ponder. As well as Great Grandchildren Madyson Foresman, Jayleigh Ponder, Easton Borchardt, Kaiden Hughey, Kayleigh Hughey, Grayson Foresman and Kenzie Norman. Along with several nieces and nephews.