Paul Clayton Erckman

Paul Clayton Erckman Paul Clayton Erckman, April 29, 1939 to Jan. 3, 2009. Paul is finally free from pain and suffering. He passed away with his loved ones at his side, and he knew that those loved ones that couldn't attend were with him in spirit and prayer. He led a most courageous battle for over 32 years. These past few months have been extremely difficult with challenges that were just unsurmountable. He taught all of us courage, strength, endurance, and his love of family and the need to stay close. He passed away at Edward Hospital, Naperville. His memorial service will be private. Paul's wish was that at this time you would say a prayer for him, and then read or sing Amazing Grace in remembrance him. Paul is survived by his devoted loving wife, Diane (nee Pedersen) of 44 years; his mother, Edith (Clayton Erckman Colfer); his sister, Judith (Mathew Ray Stewart); nephews, Mathew Stewart and Clayton Stewart (Kayla); his mother-in-law, Ethel Pedersen; sister-in-law, Karen (Martin Staff); his cherished niece, Sheri Lynn Staff (Tom Dahl); and his very dear buddy, nephew, Matthew Staff; as well as his extended family of William Erckman Jr. and Debi (Rick Petronzio); nephews, Jason and Vincent Petronzio; and nieces, Nicole Petronzio and Leslie Erckman. Paul was very proud to have served in the Army. He retired from Lucent in June 1999. From that point on, he focused on helping others by volunteering for several charities and handicap organizations. Among his volunteer work that he took pride in was his involvement with Meals on Wheels, The Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry of Naperville, Fishing Has No Boundaries (both the Illinois and Wisconsin chapters), Telecom Pioneers, and his membership in the Citizen Police Academy of DuPage County Alumni Association, to name just a few. Paul inspired those without physical challenges with his determination to master most everything on his own. He met his challenges head on with grace, courage and dignity. His inner strength was amazing to all who knew him. While Paul had an exterior that often seemed gruff, inside he was the kindest, gentlest, most compassionate soul anyone could hope to know and love. He had many devoted friends that we'll always be forever grateful to, especially Jack Martin, who was Paul's sidekick and always there during his most difficult times over many years. Paul had a second family in a group called Brothers of the Third Wheel, which is a club that he'd been a member of for over 20 years. He cherished his friendships with all of them. Paul loved animals and over the years had adopted over a dozen dogs and cats, all living very long and happy lives. He demonstrated his strong compassion for all animals and the need to take them under our wings whenever possible. The most mixed-breed pet in need was a true pedigree to him. If you wish to make a donation in Paul's memory to a charity, please make it to Animals Deserving of Proper Treatment (A.D.O.P.T.), 420 Industrial Drive, Naperville, IL 60563 or to an animal shelter or charity of your choice.