Paul D. Wise, 74, of Galesburg, died unexpectedly at 7:45 p.m. Sunday, March 8, 2020 in OSF St. Mary Medical Center.
He was born January 29, 1946, in Marcellus, New York, the son of Truman and Lovina (Taylor) Wise. He married Barbara K. Doss on November 25, 1968, in Chicago.
He is survived by his wife of over 51 years, Barbara; a daughter, Brandee (Aaron) Malcolm of Galesburg; three grandchildren, Zacharey, Abigail, and Emmie Malcolm; a half-brother, Mark Evans in Florida; a sister-in-law, Joan Wise in New York; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Dale Wise; and two sisters, Dinah Gancarz and Dona Wise.
Paul was raised and educated in Marcellus, New York, graduating from Marcellus High School. He attended Coble Skill College in New York. He moved to Chicago, where he worked for Kuhn Nagel Steamship Line as a freight forwarder. He also worked as an emcee for the Chicago Playboy Club for one year and a desk clerk for The Drake Hotel. He began a career with Rockwell/Magic Chef in Chicago, before being transferred with Maytag to Galesburg. He retired as foreman in 2004 after more than 30 years of service.
Paul was a fan of Syracuse basketball and football. He enjoyed swimming each day and was an accomplished woodworker. Paul was a loving father and grandfather and loved his dogs as well.
Visitation will be 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, March 12, 2020 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Cremation will be accorded following visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to establish a memorial fund. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.