Paul S. Coey

SHEBOYGAN FALLS, Wis. - The Rev. Paul S. Coey, rector of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Sheboygan Falls, Wis., passed away suddenly on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025, following a medical emergency. He was 37 years old.

Paul was born Dec. 22, 1987, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, the son of Kevin and Lorri (Pennock) Coey. At an early age, he felt drawn to a life of faith. He attended Carthage College, earning a bachelor's degree in religion and classics, and then began studies at Yale Divinity School. It was there he discovered that his calling was less in academic theology and more in pastoral ministry. He served briefly as a youth minister and spent several years as a hospital chaplain. He moved to Fond du Lac, Wis., in 2018 to begin working at St. Paul's Cathedral. He was ordained a transitional deacon in 2020 and then a priest in 2021. He had served faithfully as rector of St. Peter's since then. Alongside his parish, Paul also served as a chaplain for the police department and supported the work of the Production Farm next door to the church.

Intent on living life to the fullest, Paul pursued many interests. He earned a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, sailed with the yacht club and experimented with bagel-making. Paul loved going to punk concerts, his favorite bands being Joy Division and The Smiths. He also cherished the chance to travel. As a young man, he went to Israel four times to assist with archeological digs. He soaked in volcanic hot springs in Iceland with his brothers. Most recently, he had explored Egypt and Central Europe. He adored his dog, Hildegard, who was always by his side.

He was as serious and studious as he could be light-hearted and silly. He could outline the history and culture of Romania in detail, then turn around and quote lines from a '90s movie. At the heart of his character was a steady faith in God and a generous care for others. He longed for the church to grow not only in number, but in devotion and holiness. He was always ready to set aside his own needs to be present for someone in need. His life had already borne much fruit at his young age, and it will continue to bless and inspire those who remember him.

Paul is survived by his parents, Kevin Coey of Urbana and Lorri Coey of Champaign; brothers, Charles Coey of Philadelphia and Kyle (Kelly) Coey of Maryville, Tenn.; significant other, Serena Rose; dog, Hildegard; and uncles, aunts, cousins, many dear friends and his beloved congregation.

A memorial service will be at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, at the Rev. Paul's parish, St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 104 Elm St., Sheboygan Falls. The family will receive visitors at the church from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. Peter's Episcopal Church.

Wenig Funeral Home, 711 Broadway St., Sheboygan Falls, (920-467-3431), is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit wenigfh.com.