Paul F. Lareau

Paul F. Lareau, age 78 of Brookfield.  Beloved husband of Kathleen Lareau, nee Quinn; loving father of Carol (James) Barlow, Jennifer (Tim) Baxa, Karen (Sanjay) Patel, Elizabeth Lareau; dear grandfather of Kate, Leigh, Anne Barlow, Ellie, Maddie, Mimi Baxa, Ailey, Neela, Finley and Ian Patel; brother of Suzanne Lareau; brother in law and uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Paul was born on November 24, 1942, in Detroit, MI, to Philip Lareau and Marie (Swartz) Lareau. He attended St. David’s grade school and De LaSalle High School. He then went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting from St. Thomas Aquinas college in St. Paul, MN. He answered the call to serve his country and joined the Army Reserves for six years. Upon graduation, he was hired by Ryerson Steel in Chicago, and he remained there for his entire forty-year career. While there, he earned his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago.

On a visit home to Detroit, he met his wife Kathy who was the sister of his good friend Dan. They were married more than 53 years, and she was the love of his life. Together, they raised four daughters and were blessed with 10 grandchildren.

Over the years, they enjoyed sunsets in Bayfield, Canada, lakeside fires and boat rides on Lake Templene in Michigan, and winters in Florida.

He volunteered and served St. Louise Parish in various positions, including pancake maker at community breakfasts, member of the finance committee for many years and chair of the Spirit of St. Louise fundraising effort. In addition, he served on the board of Pillars Community Health organization and was involved in the Lawndale Community Center during his days at Ryerson.

At the end of his life, Paul reflected on his good fortune, saying “I had a great life, a wonderful wife and family, lifelong friends and a great job. What else can you ask for?”

Visitation Wednesday, August 11, 2021 from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at Hitzeman Funeral Home, Ltd. 9445 W. 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513.

Funeral Thursday, August 12, 2021 at St. Louise de Marillac Church, corner of 30th and Raymond Ave., La Grange Park. Mass 10:00 A.M.  All are asked to meet at church for Mass and masks are required.

Interment Private

Memorials appreciated to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 E. Ohio St., Chicago, IL  60611 or Pillars Community Health, 23 Calendar Avenue, LaGrange, IL  60525.

Information 708-485-2000 or www.HitzemanFuneral.com

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