Paul John Molinarolo

     Paul John Molinarolo, age 84 of Harrisburg, passed away at 3:40 AM, Friday, April 19, 2024 at Heartland Regional Medical Center.

     Paul was born on March 23, 1940, in Eldorado, Illinois to the late Pete and Mary (Sturam) Molinarolo.  On November 30, 1963, he married Janet Ann Giltosky, and she preceded him in death on April 6, 2014.  Paul graduated from Eldorado High School in 1958 and continued his education at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale earning a degree in Agriculture. Paul proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was stationed in Okinawa during the Vietnam War. Paul spent his career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture from 1963-1996.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus.  He enjoyed bird watching, going to auctions, history and traveling, particularly in the Caribbean. Paul loved working with his hands. This showed in his love for carpentry, gardening, and flowers. He was a good artist, especially drawing and painting.  He was selfless, overly generous, and had a witty sense of humor. Paul was known by so many for his gentle and sweet spirit.

     Paul is survived by a son, David Paul Molinarolo of Harrisburg; daughter, Amy Severson and husband Mike of Nashville, Tennessee; granddaughter, Reed Severson of Nashville, Tennessee; sister-in-law, Diane Kovach of Harrisburg; nine nieces and nephews, Jeff Schmitt, Thomas Schmitt, Jerry Schmitt, Caroline Bach, Karen Miller, John Schmitt, Bill Molinarolo, Angela Kovach and Chris Kovach; several great nieces and nephews; and a dear friend, Joe Cerutti.

     In addition to his wife, Janet and parents, Paul was preceded in death by a brother, Virgil Molinarolo and a sister, Nita Schmitt.

     Mass of Christian burial for Paul John Molinarolo will be held at 10 AM, Friday, May 3, 2024 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Harrisburg. Father Christian Iwuagwu and Father Tom Barrett will officiate and burial will follow in Sunset Hill Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by the United States Army. Visitation will be held from 5 PM to 8 PM, Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Stricklin Funeral Home in Harrisburg with a Rosery Service beginning at 7 PM.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church and envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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