1940
Paul
2024
Paul D'Arras
March 7, 1940 — May 30, 2024
God told Paul the road was getting too long and difficult, and it was time to come home. Surrounded by the love of his family, he finished his journey on earth and peacefully entered the arms of the Lord on May 30, 2024. Left with loving memories of him are his dearest wife of 53 years, Mary (nee Kretzer), beloved sons Brice Darras and Brett d'Arras, dear granddaughter Cora Darras and Cora's mom Renee O'Cleary, twin sister and best friend throughout life Pauline "Peach" Herman, favorite traveling companions as well as in-laws, Herbert and Carol Kretzer, and dear sister-in-law Kathleen Kretzer, who shared such a long part of the journey with him. Paul "Uncle Butch" is survived by many nieces and nephews he loved, and who will miss him greatly.
Now in God's care, he is reunited with those dear to him who left before him, including his mother and father, Stefanie and Paul, niece Laurie Herman, brother Frank, and brother-in-law Jim Herman.
Paul grew up in Kingsford, Michigan. He attended Northern Michigan University, where he set some impressive football rcords as a running back. He also had a short stint in the Canadian Football League with the Ottawa Rough Riders. He served in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany specializing in radio communications. Paul was also awarded Marksman, Rifle M14 commendation. I guess that is why we have so many deer antlers hanging in the basement. He enjoyed his annual deer hunting trip with his brother Frank each year, hunting in Michigan and Wisconsin.
His working years were mostly spent at American Can as a machine mechanic, along with being a union representative for his fellow employees.
Being surrounded by nature was healing and relaxing for him. Paul loved his long winter vacations in Florida....walking the beach for hours and then swimming laps in the pool. A nice cold beer with his buddy, Herb, would follow. Paul walked the 16-mile Bill Chipman trail in Washington/Idaho in one day - on his 75th birthday. He was so proud of that accomplishment.
This gentle man loved animals, especially cats. He was a cat magnet. They all seemed to pick him as their "person." And he could fix anything, assemble anything, and do it precisely with great patience.
But above all in life, he valued and loved his family. They were everything to him. He loved and was so proud of both his sons, Brice and Brett. They could always bring a smile to his face. He was a loving grandpa to Cora, waiting for the laughter and happy noise that would accompany her when she came to visit. Family gatherings were treasured. Now we will treasure all the memories with Paul we were blessed to create throughout the years.
We extend special thanks to Jennifer, Gina, Sandy and Chaplain Steve of Horizon Hospice for the help and support they provided, but we are especially grateful to Cornelius, who became a special friend and comfort to Paul.
Father Mike of St. Boniface prayed with Paul as he neared the end of his journey, and we felt the peace it gave him. Thank you, Father Mike.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Boniface Parish, the Washington County Humane Society or the charity of your choice would honor Paul's memory. Visitation on Tuesday, June 11 from 10 am to 11 am, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at St. Boniface Parish, W204N11940 Goldendale Road, Germantown, Wisconsin. Inurnment immediately following at St. Boniface Cemetery.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Paul D'Arras, please visit our flower store.
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