Paul R. Schwendeman

Paul R. Schwendeman, 90, of Burton, OH, passed away peacefully Friday afternoon, August 22, 2025, at his home surrounded by the love and laughter of his family. He was born in Middlefield, OH on January 14, 1935 to the late Charles and Eleanor (Tulius) Schwendeman. Paul later married his best friend and love of his life, Carol (Minnick) Schwendeman on November 5, 1955. Sweethearts since the 7th grade, their love story was one of patience, devotion, and laughter—the kind of bond that set the foundation for the family they built together.

Paul lived a long and joyful life, marked by daily acts of kindness, a humble spirit, and a deep love for Christ. He’ll be remembered just as much for his booming laugh and never-ending stories as he will for the warmth and generosity he showed to everyone he met. To know Paul was to feel like family—he never met a stranger, only new friends.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Paul served on active duty from 1957 to 1959 and continued his service in the Army Reserves from 1961 to 1980. He carried that same sense of service into civilian life throughout his career. Paul worked in construction and spent much of his life employed in the rubber industry before finishing his career at Great Lakes Cheese, where he eventually retired.

After retirement, Paul found joy in serving others, whether through his involvement with Meals on Wheels or simply lending a hand to anyone in need. He was especially devoted to his parish community at St. Ambrose Church, where he cared for the grounds, faithfully served as a Eucharistic Minister, and proudly manned the grills at the annual chicken BBQ fundraiser year after year.

Paul was a natural athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball throughout high school, and he never lost his passion for sports—cheering on Cleveland teams through every high and low season (and there were plenty of both!). 

Affectionately known as “Poppy” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Paul was the heart of his family. Though his loved ones will miss his presence dearly, they celebrate knowing he is reunited with his Savior—and more than likely already sitting at a heavenly poker table, swapping stories (and maybe a few bluffs) with his brothers.

Paul was preceded in death by: his brothers, Charles, Roy, Ralph, and Francis Schwendeman; his sister-in-law, Judy Cain; and his daughter-in-law, Michelle Schwendeman.

He is survived by: his wife of nearly 70 years, Carol; his children, Clair (Angela), Kurt, Amy Law (Rick), and Tanya Schwendeman Lewis (Steve); his sisters, Gertrude Hall and Ellie Fricker; his grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and cherished “bonus” family members, Will Wallace (Marie), Denise Valentine (Tyrone), and their families.

Family and friends will be received from 4-7pm on Wednesday, September 3rd at Best Funeral Home, 15809 Madison Rd, Middlefield, OH 44062. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11am on Thursday, September 4th, at St. Ambrose Church, 10692 Freedom St, Garrettsville, OH 44231 with Father Pentello officiating. A luncheon will follow at St. Joseph Church, 11045 St. Joseph Blvd, Mantua, OH 44255.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Traditions Hospice for the compassionate and outstanding care they provided, and especially to the ladies who brightened Paul’s days–Tanesha, Monica, Alisa, and McKenzie. You were the true rays of light in his last days, and the family will forever be grateful.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Paul’s honor to:
● Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Please donate under the “Memory Acknowledgment” section so the family may thank you.
● Meals on Wheels at www.action.mealsonwheelsamerica.org, contributing “in memory of someone.”

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