Paul Frederick Person

In Loving Memory of Paul Person

January 6, 1958 - May 14, 2025

Paul Person, age 67, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most.

Born on January 6, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, Paul was the beloved son of Roy and Beverly Person. He graduated from Bogan High School in 1976 and later pursued his passion for science and the natural world, earning a double bachelor's degree in Physical Sciences and Biology. He went on to achieve a master's degree in Geomorphology from Illinois State University, focusing on geography and weather, and spending his summers studying glaciers, weather patterns, and soil systems-work he found deeply meaningful.

Paul began his professional journey in the world of graphic design, a career path that was influenced by early experiences working with his father at Frank O. Carlson, a sign painting company. This led to Paul founding his own successful business, Paul Person Graphics, where he combined artistic creativity with technical skill. He worked in this field for decades, building a strong reputation and meaningful client relationships.

Though Paul's professional accomplishments were many, his greatest joy came from his relationships. He married the love of his life, Ellen Person, on April 6, 2015, in a beautiful ceremony in Key West, Florida. Theirs was a love story that began in high school, grew apart with time, and found its way back -proof of the enduring bonds of love. Together, Paul and Ellen built a life filled with joy, travel, deep conversations, and devotion to family.

Paul was a generous soul, always willing to help others and to treat those he loved with kindness and care. He had a brilliant mind-one that often led to long, detailed explanations-and a deep curiosity about the world around him. He loved a good meal with a glass of pinot grigio, a long cruise, a round of golf, and any opportunity to gather with family. A loyal and passionate Green Bay Packers fan, Paul brought that same energy and commitment into every relationship he held.

He was a proud and devoted father who never missed a chance to compliment his children's intelligence and achievements. He was a good listener, always present and engaged in the lives of his loved ones, and left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Ellen Person; his mother, Beverly Person; his children, Jonathan (Staci) Person and Caitlin Person; his cherished granddaughter Addison; and his siblings Bruce (Karen) Person, Mark (Pat) Person, Judith Person, and Matthew Person. He is also survived by his first wife, Mary Bailey Person the mother of his children, as well as 14 nieces and nephews, numerous cousins and countless extended family and friends who will miss his warmth, humor, and wisdom.

He was preceded in death by his father, Roy Person; his sisters Kathleen Person and Elizabeth Person; and his nephew Timothy Herzog.

Services to honor Paul's life will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Vandenberg Funeral Home in Tinley Park. Visitation will begin at 3:00 PM with Service to follow at 7:00 PM

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Paul's name to American Diabetes Research the link is below.  

Paul's memory will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him.  His legacy lives on through his family and friends and all who were touched by his generous spirit.  In a final act of caring and kindness Paul was an organ and tissue donor, with the possibility of saving or improving almost a hundred lives.  More information on donation can be found at Gift of Hope