Paul Joseph Michels of Aurora, Illinois, passed away suddenly on May 16, 2020. He was born in Aurora on April 21, 1960, to Bernard J Michels, Jr., and Lois (Goodendorf) Michels. He attended St. Joseph Grade School and graduated from Aurora Central Catholic HS. He started working at thirteen cleaning the corner laundromat to save for scuba diving lessons. As a young man, he worked at a meat packing company, on a barge on the Illinois River and in a Door County dive shop. He dived in the Great Lakes and in Cancun; he skied in Colorado and Wyoming; he loved all dogs and owned four. His life's work was in construction, engineering and water treatment working in local municipalities and, later, in Houston and Tampa. Paul could find an adventure, a good story and a laugh in just about any situation and he will be remembered as one of the most likable guys around.
Paul is survived by his sisters and brothers: Therese Michels, Bernard Michels, Martha Smith, Maureen (Earl) Hardekopf, Janice (Mark) Rudolph, Terry (Julia) Michels, and Ann (Joe) Pressel; his nieces and nephews: Lisa, Adam, Jeff and Doug Hardekopf; Matt, Gail (Rodgers) and Kevin Smith; Eric and Bryan Rudolph; Andrew and Isaac Michels; his aunt, Anna Marie Avram, and his uncle, James K. Michels; his best friend, Jeff Michels, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, his dear friend, Barbara Marhoefer, and all four of his beloved dogs: Cinnamon, Brandy, Winston and Muffin.
Due to current restrictions, a private family funeral Mass will be held Saturday, May 23, 2020 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Fr. Jerome Leake will officiate with interment at St. Jospeh Cemetery.

A celebration of life event will take place at a later date. Memorials in Paul's name may be made to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements handled by THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 North Lake Street, Aurora, Illinois 60506. (630) 631-5500

Please visit our interactive website at www.daleidenmortuary.com where you may sign the guest book or leave condolences for Paul's family.