Paul D. "Denny" Paquet

Paul Dennis "Denny" Paquet, age 86, of Chocolay Township, passed away on November 22, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family and friends, and under the care of UP Home Health and Hospice.
Denny was born April 7, 1939, in Escanaba, a son of Vernon J. and Elizabeth D. (Schram) Paquet. He was raised for five years in Escanaba, then four years in Chetek, Wisconsin, and came to Marquette in 1952.
He graduated from Graveraet High School in 1957 where he participated in football all four years of high school. He began his working career with Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company on their ore boats, sailing for three years. He then was employed with Stern and Field Clothing Store as a salesman before moving to Detroit and enrolling in barber school. Returning to Marquette as a licensed barber, Denny opened up his own barber shop which he ran from 1962 to 1973. He then purchased Paps Pub on N. Third Street, which he operated for many years as The Pub, known for its great food.
In 1985, Denny sold The Pub. Later pursuits included working as a downhill ski instructor at Cliffs Ridge Ski Hill and becoming part owner of Superior Mobile X-Ray, transporting portable x-ray equipment to nursing homes for patients unable to get to hospital facilities. In retirement, Denny kept busy by enlisting Fred and June Schaefer, and a host of volunteers, in forming the downhill ski program for Special Olympics. Always interested and active in sports, Denny enjoyed playing golf, playing hockey, and was a member of Pat's Bar softball team. For a time, he coached hockey, with his team winning the 1982 State Championship, and being named Coach of the Year. He was also named Coach of the Year for Special Olympics for his mentorship.
Denny is survived by his sons, Stephen (Kat) Paquet of Hannibal, MO, Timothy (Janette) Paquet of Watsontown, PA, and David (Linda) Paquet of Negaunee; nine grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Julie Herman of Marquette and Debbie Paquet; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his companion and significant other, Kathie Lindberg of Marquette.
In addition to his parents, Denny was preceded in death by his wife, Lois Jean Paquet in 2019; and brothers, Vernon Joseph Paquet, Jr, Phillip James "Mike" Paquet, and Jon Terrence Paquet.
Honoring his request, no public services will be scheduled.
Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com