Paul G. Krein

Paul G. Krein, a true Chicago legend who lived a life as vibrant and spirited as a perfectly rolled strike in the tenth frame, passed away on September 17, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on December 2, 1946, in the Windy City itself, Paul's charm and wit were as renowned as his beloved Chicago Cubs' historic World Series drought - which, thankfully, he lived to see them break.

Paul's journey came to a peaceful conclusion in Winfield, IL, surrounded by the love and memories he created throughout an incredible life. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, a passion for the simple pleasures, and a family tree as deeply rooted as his love for a medium steak paired with a robust cabernet.

Vanessa, Veronica, and Paulie - as he affectionately called his son, are Paul's pride and joy, his ultimate 'hat trick.' Veronica's husband Jim, and Paulie's wife Cristina, also played starring roles in the sitcom that was Paul's family life. The spin-off series, featuring grandkids Madison, Ethan, Lily, Oliver, and Brielle, ensured that the Krein family legacy would be as enduring as Paul's record-breaking 300 game in bowling back in 2004.

Paul was predeceased by his wife, Mary, who no doubt greeted him with the same exasperated yet loving eyeroll she perfected over their years together. His parents, Arthur Sr. and Marion, as well as his brother, Arthur Jr., were surely waiting to catch up over a cocktail or glass of wine. His second born daughter Valerie, who passed at a very young age, will be at the front of the line waiting to great him in heaven.

For over six decades, Paul was the kingpin at Olson Rug Company, where his colleagues were more like a second family, or at least a very committed bowling league. Oh, and he also had a very committed bowling league. His "friends" as he affectionately called them.

Musicals were one of Paul's not-so-guilty pleasures, and he was known to belt out show tunes, especially when accompanied by his daughters and grandkids. The only thing that rivaled his love for the theater was his love for Disneyworld, which he insisted was the happiest place on earth - even happier than Wrigley Field after a Cubs win.

As we bid farewell to Paul G. Krein, let's honor his memory by living as he did - donating to the children, enjoying all moments big and small, and the unwavering belief that next year, is definitely the year, for our Chicago Bears. And as Paul would say "Roads? Where we're going, we don't need roads." You sure don't Paul!

In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Lurie Children's Hospital are much appreciated. (Link below)

Visitation, Monday, September 22, 2025, 4:00PM to 8:00PM at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Avenue, Justice, Illinois.

Funeral, Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 9:00AM Prayers and Procession to begin from the funeral home to Saint Patricia Church, 9040 S. 86th Avenue, Hickory Hills, Illinois for 10:00AM Mass.

Interment, Cremation Rites to be accorded.