Paul Earl Brendemihl

Paul Earl Brendemihl, age 83, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on June 10, 2026, surrounded by his family who loved him dearly.

Paul was born on July 3, 1942, in Menominee, Mich., to Arthur and Marie Brendemihl. He grew up in Marinette, in a large and loving family and was one of many siblings, including Cecile, Arthur “Bud”, Artis Jean, Mary Jo, Patricia, Rose and Rita.

On December 6, 1969, Paul married Barbara Haile and together they began a journey that spanned 56 years. They raised four children, who survive him: Angie (Joe) Czaja of Kaukauna; Jill (Dan) Pahlow of Maribel; John (Kathleen) Brendemihl of Rhinelander; and Josie (Aaron) Benbrooks of Appleton.

Paul’s greatest joy was his family. He was immensely proud of his grandchildren: Levy (Ashly) Czaja, Ike Czaja, Amidala Czaja, Alex (Jaelyn) Brendemihl, Aiden Brendemihl, Kendra (Tyler) Schroeder, Henry Pahlow, Eli Pahlow, Jaymz Higgins, and Drew Higgins. He was also blessed with four step-grandchildren: Evan, Ethan, Adelyn, and Emersyn Benbrooks, and two great-grandchildren, Eloise and Jack Czaja, who brought him great joy. Paul especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, school activities and theater performances, always cheering them on. Paul also looked forward to fishing trips to Canada with his sons and grandsons and the connections that surrounded these times.

Paul attended Marinette Catholic Central High School and graduated in 1960. During his years in high school Paul was actively involved in the Boy Scouts and later returned as a counselor at Bear Paw Scout Camp. Following high school, Paul proudly served his country in the United States Army from February 7, 1964 to January 19, 1968. Paul was stationed at the Itazuke Air Base in Japan and was assigned to work in intelligence. He attained the rank of Specialist 5. After completing his military service, Paul worked at Interstate Valweld in Marinette, and later at Mechanical Incorporated in Tomahawk. In his later years, he found great enjoyment working at Carstens Ace Hardware in Kaukauna, where he valued the friendships he made and the opportunity to help others with his knowledge and practical wisdom.

Paul was always willing to lend a hand. When one of his children decided a project was needed he never hesitated, showing up with his tools, his know how, and the patience to help bring it to life. He had a remarkable ability to fix just about anything that was broken and generously shared his talents with his family.

Paul’s faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. Above all else, he loved his Savior and shared that love of Jesus with his family. He was actively involved in the Foursquare Church in Rhinelander for 34 years, where he served on the church board and contributed his time and leadership in support of his faith community. More importantly, Paul lived out his faith and found peace in knowing that his final destination was heaven.

Paul also devoted himself to civic service in the Town of Sugar Camp for several years, where he served as the town supervisor and proudly gave back to the place he called home for 36 years. In addition to his leadership in both church and civic life, Paul was a dedicated member of the Sugar Camp Lions Club for many years. He could often be found volunteering at community events throughout Sugar Camp, including bingo nights and the annual polka fest fundraisers.

Paul will be remembered for his steady faith in his Savior, quiet strength, unwavering work ethic, generous heart, and deep devotion to those he loved. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, faithfulness, and his quiet but meaningful ways of contributing to the lives of others. Paul’s dry humor and joy remained a constant part of who he was, even until the very end.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Peabody Manor in Appleton, for the compassionate care they provided to Paul during his final months.

In accordance with his wishes, no funeral service will be held. The family will celebrate his life privately and Paul will be laid to rest at the Sugar Camp Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society in Paul’s honor.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Paul will be deeply missed and forever loved until the day his family is reunited with him again.