Paul Thomas Verschaeve

Paul Thomas Verschaeve obituary, Utica, MI

Paul Thomas Verschaeve

Paul Verschaeve Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, Inc. - Shelby Township on Feb. 9, 2026.
Psalm 112:6 "A righteous man will be remembered forever."

Paul Verschaeve of Utica Michigan, was ushered into the presence of the Lord on February 7, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Paul loved the Lord and leaves a legacy of abiding faith, generosity, passion, and humor that will forever be cherished. He was a loyal husband, a strong father, and a faithful friend.

Paul was born on September 14, 1952, in Hamtramck Michigan, to Ralph and Irene Verschaeve (Karpinski). He graduated from Bishop Gallagher High School in 1970 and went on to study engineering at Michigan Technological University. He finished his education at Lake Superior State University, graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Paul met the love of his life, Jan Verschaeve (Taormina), at Bishop Gallagher High School. Paul loved and cherished Jan and was looking forward to celebrating his 50th wedding anniversary with her this year. He laid down his life for Jan with diligence, kindness, and love-a legacy that will be felt throughout the generations. Above any award or accolade, Paul was most proud of his five daughters-Carrie, Katie, Pam, Colleen, and Shawn-and he made sure that they (and the rest of the world) knew it!

Paul surrendered his life to Jesus in 1981 and never looked back. He knew then that two things would be required of him-to faithfully serve his Lord and to love his wife-his trajectory was set, and he lived out a life informed by his faith.

Paul was a tireless worker both professionally and privately. He never slowed down after retiring from Ford Motor Company, diligently working several part-time jobs in retirement with the same determination and dedication to excellence that he gave to his career. He regularly served in a local jail ministry, sharing the Good News and providing hope to those who need it most. Paul was faithful in the small things, making a point of taking care of his neighbors and anyone else who happened into his sphere of influence.

Paul loved his family well. He is survived by his wife Jan; his daughters Carrie Phelps (Brian), Katie Zuehlk (Andrew), Pam Silva (Alex), Colleen Lett (Jacob), and Shawn Prucnal (Nik); his grandchildren Luke, Jordan, and Kenzie Phelps; Esther King (Manu), Ben, Sara, and Mary Zuehlk; Sam, Gemma, and Margot Silva; Marcus, Josh, and Laine Lett; June, John-Avery, Rosemary, and Ben Prucnal; his brother Jerry Verschaeve (Carol), his brother Chuck Verschaeve (Carol); and his nieces and nephews.

Psalm 112:2 "His children will be mighty in land; the generation of the upright will be blessed."

Paul can confidently say with the apostle, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

To God be the glory!

A Memorial Visitation will take place on Sunday, February 15th from 2:00pm to 8:00pm with a 6:00pm Memorial Service at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons 54880 Van Dyke at 25 Mile Rd. (SHELBY TOWNSHIP).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Revive Our Hearts ministry. To make a donation please call 1 (800) 569-5959. https://www.reviveourhearts.com/. Share memories with the family at their "On Line Guest Book" @ WujekCalcaterra.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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February 14, 2026

Pat Karpen posted to the memorial.

February 10, 2026

Joel Seasonwein posted to the memorial.

February 9, 2026

The Wujek-Calcaterra Family posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Pat Karpen

February 14, 2026

To the Verschaeve Family,
I am very sorry for your loss. Paul was a terrific man and I am a better person for having known him.
I was blessed to have Paul as a friend during 3 distinct periods of our lives. First, during our "growing up" years at Our Lady Queen of Peace grade school and Bishop Gallagher H.S. Second, during our post-collegiate years when we played a lot of softball with the Strokers and celebrated our wins with a few beers along the way. And, finally, during our "growing old" years -- after we re-connected as a result of a serendipitous meeting at Pine Trace Golf Course several years ago.
During the past several summers (when my wife (Pat) and I would escape the Florida heat in order to spend a couple of months in Michigan), Paul and I would get together with our mutual buddy, Rick Schwanitz. The last time I saw Paul was August 18, 2025 when we had lunch. Rick couldn't join us for that get-together as he was still recovering from an illness. I wish I had been given a chance to say goodbye to Paul, but neither of us knew it would be our last time together.
From both of us, we offer our condolences on the loss of a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. May he rest in peace.
From both of us, we wish you comfort during this very difficult time.
Pat and Pat Karpen

Joel Seasonwein

February 10, 2026

Janet: My sincere condolences to you and the girls. I was sorry to hear of Paul's passing. Best regards, Joel Seasonwein

The Wujek-Calcaterra Family

February 9, 2026

May we continue to honor and respect all the lessons we have learned; acting as living symbols of a loving spirit. You are in our prayers.

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Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, Inc. - Shelby Township

54880 Van Dyke, Shelby Township, MI 48316

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Sign Paul Verschaeve's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 14, 2026

Pat Karpen posted to the memorial.

February 10, 2026

Joel Seasonwein posted to the memorial.

February 9, 2026

The Wujek-Calcaterra Family posted to the memorial.