Paul Arthur Kesteloot passed peacefully, surrounded by family on January 24, 2026 entering into eternal life at the age of 90.
Paul Kesteloot was born on June 5, 1935, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Esther (Munday) and Albert Kesteloot. Throughout his childhood, Paul moved frequently, forming lasting friendships wherever he went. Through those friendships, he met Shirley, the love of his life and devoted partner of more than 68 years.
Paul was a faithful member of the Catholic Church, The Knights of Columbus and an active member of Safari Club International, Flint Chapter.
Paul pursued studies in engineering and drafting and became an expert in HVAC. Eventually, he founded his own business, Troy Heating and Cooling. Alongside his trusted right-hand man and business partner, Greg Hervey, Paul continued working well into his 80s—never quite ready to retire, and even taking on the occasional side job beyond the age of 85.
Paul will be remembered as an amazing man: humble, kind, patient, and wise. His greatest passion was always his family, followed closely by his love for the outdoors. Together, Paul and Shirley led a remarkable life traveling the globe.
While Paul hunted and fished on most trips, they both enjoyed seeing the different cultures and making many new friends along the way.
Paul is survived by his loving wife Shirley (Kurkowski) Kesteloot; his children, Michael (Michelle) Kesteloot, Susan (Gene) Lizotte, Mary (late Michael) Calabrese, James (Debra) Kesteloot, Richard Kesteloot, Patricia Kesteloot, and Douglas (Sheri Wydra) Kesteloot; 15 of his 16 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild, as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Albert; his grandson, Nelson Whitener; and his son-in-law, Michael Calabrese.
Paul's life was one of devotion, hard work, adventure, and deep love—a legacy that will live on through all who were blessed to know him.
"Grandpa said he wanted to live until he died", and he did.
As Paul frequently said,
"I'm good, I'm always good".
Service to be held on February 9, 2026
St. Mary of the Hills
2675 John R Rd.
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Family and friends are welcome to gather at the church 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral Mass 11:00 a.m.
Paul Kesteloot was born on June 5, 1935, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Esther (Munday) and Albert Kesteloot. Throughout his childhood, Paul moved frequently, forming lasting friendships wherever he went. Through those friendships, he met Shirley, the love of his life and devoted partner of more than 68 years.
Paul was a faithful member of the Catholic Church, The Knights of Columbus and an active member of Safari Club International, Flint Chapter.
Paul pursued studies in engineering and drafting and became an expert in HVAC. Eventually, he founded his own business, Troy Heating and Cooling. Alongside his trusted right-hand man and business partner, Greg Hervey, Paul continued working well into his 80s—never quite ready to retire, and even taking on the occasional side job beyond the age of 85.
Paul will be remembered as an amazing man: humble, kind, patient, and wise. His greatest passion was always his family, followed closely by his love for the outdoors. Together, Paul and Shirley led a remarkable life traveling the globe.
While Paul hunted and fished on most trips, they both enjoyed seeing the different cultures and making many new friends along the way.
Paul is survived by his loving wife Shirley (Kurkowski) Kesteloot; his children, Michael (Michelle) Kesteloot, Susan (Gene) Lizotte, Mary (late Michael) Calabrese, James (Debra) Kesteloot, Richard Kesteloot, Patricia Kesteloot, and Douglas (Sheri Wydra) Kesteloot; 15 of his 16 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild, as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Albert; his grandson, Nelson Whitener; and his son-in-law, Michael Calabrese.
Paul's life was one of devotion, hard work, adventure, and deep love—a legacy that will live on through all who were blessed to know him.
"Grandpa said he wanted to live until he died", and he did.
As Paul frequently said,
"I'm good, I'm always good".
Service to be held on February 9, 2026
St. Mary of the Hills
2675 John R Rd.
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Family and friends are welcome to gather at the church 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral Mass 11:00 a.m.
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