Paul D. Rosenberg

Paul D. Rosenberg, 96, of Robinson, IL, passed away on February 24, 2024, at Regional Hospital in Terre Haute, IN. Born on April 2, 1927, in Logansport, IN, he grew up in Thornton, IL, and graduated from Thornton Township High School. His youthful charm shone brightly when Paul met the love of his life, Wanda Jean Swope, at Buda Co. The story goes that he saw her in an elevator and refused to let her go until she agreed to go on a date with him! This bold gesture marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership. They married on November 28, 1944, and shared a beautiful life together until her passing in 2008.
Paul served his country with pride during World War II, enlisting in the U.S. Navy. He traveled to distant shores, stationed in China and the Philippines as a seaman first class, assisting in the recovery of war equipment. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned home, eager to start a new chapter.
Embracing the post-war American spirit, Paul's work ethic was simply unmatched. He joined People's Gas Company before moving to Robinson, where he began his long-standing career with Marathon. Starting as a dry freight truck driver, his drive and dedication saw him rise through the ranks in the company. Starting in 1966, he began supervising terminals across the Midwest and ultimately retired as a terminal and marketing supervisor in Pasadena, TX. His loyalty to Marathon was unwavering, and he often spoke of his time there with great pride. Retirement could not still Paul's restless spirit. He moved to Tucson, AZ, where he worked at a local hardware store, only to return to Robinson in 1988. Here, he managed the local Super Wash and later, Casey's General Store, where he was renowned for waking at 3:00 a.m. to craft donuts, always saving some for his beloved Wanda. His industrious nature was complemented by his joy in staying active, from archery to golf, and his participation in a bowling league.
Paul's infectious humor and kindness made him a cherished figure in the community. A jokester with a humble and wise soul, he never met a stranger and would strike up conversations anywhere, often becoming the connection point of both his family and his community. His leadership was felt in every facet of his life, ensuring that everything was run just so. Paul's leadership skills were put to good use when he joined the Robinson Fire & Police Commission, and he was also a proud member of the Robinson American Legion Post #69, Robinson VFW Post #4549, and the Palestine Masonic Lodge #849, where he was a Past Master. His faith was deeply rooted in the community at the Palestine First Presbyterian Church, who could speak to this dear man's walk with his Lord.
Paul Rosenberg lived a life characterized by kindness, generosity, and wisdom. His faith-filled spirit and analytical mind left an indelible mark on all who knew him. His story showed us a picture of what it means to live well: he gave sacrificially, loved deeply, and laughed often. Paul will be profoundly missed, but his legacy will undoubtedly continue to enrich the lives of those he touched.
He is survived by his two daughters & sons-in-law, Jennifer & Mark McKinney (Mattoon, IL) and Phoebe & Dan Fuller (rural Robinson, IL); by two grandchildren, Jamie Beth Littlejohn (Olney, IL) and Paul Joseph Alger (Oblong, IL); by three great-grandchildren, Nicholas Littlejohn, Collin Alger, and Korbin Alger; by several step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; by his sister, Betty Knarr (Kokomo, IN); by his half-sisters, Bonnie Krooswyk (St. John, IN); as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Wanda Rosenberg; by his parents, Odin C. & Mildred (Hall) Rosenberg; by his brothers, Donald, Robert, Ross, and Odean Rosenberg; as well as his special friend, Thelma Lowe.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 8th, at Oak Grove Cemetery, rural Palestine, IL. Memorial contributions may be made to either "St. Jude Children's Research Hospital" or the "Crawford County Humane Society", and memorial envelopes will be available at the cemetery. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of arrangements.