Paul P. Willy

Paul Willy, age 84, of Cedar Lake, passed away May 17, 2023. He is survived by his daughters, Mary (Jorge Lozano) and Mildred (John Herek), grandson, Alexander Lozano-Willy, sister Eleanor Willy, brothers, Gregory, Lawrence (Ruth), and Warren (Barbara), sisters-in-law Agnes Moffett and Charlette Keilman, three stepsisters, multiple nieces and nephews, bonus daughters Kris (Todd Nowicki) and Kelly (Jay Chambers) and bonus grandkids.
Paul was preceded in death by Margaret, his wife of 53 years; his parents, George C. and Mary; brother, George; sisters-in-law, Linda and Charmaine; and brothers-in-law, Robert Keilman and Darcel Moffett.
Paul worked proudly as a UAW employee of Ford Motor Company's Chicago Heights Stamping Plant for 37 years. He believed that everyone should drive a Ford and was proud when they did so. He was a proud American who loved the Red, White, and Blue.
Paul was a quiet man who could be loud when he was enthusiastic about a particular topic. He loved his family and the life he built with his wife, Margie. He was kind and extremely patient. His fighting spirit, unbelievable toughness, and "Never Give Up" attitude will never be forgotten as they are life lessons that serve us well. He loved life! And his love of life and positive outlook was contagious.
He loved playing games with his family, including Pinochle, Rummikub, and Yahtzee. He enjoyed the challenge of putting together puzzles averaging the completion of 2-3, 1000-piece puzzles per week with the assistance of Eleanor.
He spent hours tending to his garden with its variety of flowers and feeding the birds. Many enjoyed the raspberries picked by Paul in the hot July sun. Paul loved fishing and was best known for having multiple poles in the water and giving advice on how to catch crappie at his favorite fishing hole, Hamlin Lake in Ludington, Michigan. He enjoyed driving around and looking at crops, having grown up on a farm. Paul was a snappy dresser and avid hat collector with an expansive holiday selection.
The family thanks PACE (Franciscan Senior Health & Wellness) and his caregivers over the last 7 years who provided support making it possible for him to stay in his home, his most precious wish.
Paul had many best friends in life who helped create numerous memories over the years. He will be dearly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him. Although we will miss him beyond words, we are happy he is at home.
Friends may greet the family on Saturday, May 20, 2023 from 12 pm to 6 pm at BURDAN FUNERAL HOME, 12901 Wicker Ave. Cedar Lake. A memorial mass will be held Monday, May 22, 2023 at 2 pm DIRECTLY at Holy Name Catholic Church, 11000 W. 133rd Ave. Cedar Lake. Inurnment will immediately follow at Holy Name Cemetery.
Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider donations to Meals on Wheels Northwest Indiana, PACE (please discuss with the family), for those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, or a charity of your choice. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that contributions be made to these worthy causes.