“Walk slow, I’ve been looking forward to this for a long time.” When Paul David Rainey of Williamston, MI spoke these words to his daughter at the start of their walk down the aisle on her wedding day, it was one time of many that he reminded those he loved what he cared about the most and that he knew how to live each moment of his life to the fullest.
Born June 11, 1946, Paul was never encumbered by a need to live his life how others expected. He lived life on his own terms, embracing opportunity as it came, but never compromising others in the process. He was inquisitive, smart, and well-read, and savored the opportunity to spar with friends and family over his political views. Although passionately committed to his side of the debate, frequently stirring the pot by sending a constant stream of memes and emails to “show others the light” of his perspective, Paul never forgot to prioritize being respectful over being right. He had an amazingly quick wit and sharp sense of humor which, when followed with his big knowing grin, often left those on the receiving end of his opinionated banter won over by his charm. He had a natural ability to talk to people and build rapport, which he leaned upon throughout his successful career in insurance sales. Although he didn’t have an extensive formal education (he completed some college at Ferris State and often joked that he majored in having a good time), Paul cared deeply about learning and about developing and maintaining a strong work ethic. He refused to settle for mediocrity. His two mantras were “Give it your all, always, 200%” and “If you are going to do it, do it right”. He could have had a second career as a motivational speaker because of his penchant for sharing life lessons and tips for success that still resonate with those who knew him best.
In Paul, one found the uncommon blend of a man who was a leader and demonstrated unwavering viewpoints to which he was firmly committed and a man who was a good listener who valued consideration of others, no matter how small the act. This might include never leaving a bed unmade while a guest in someone’s home or never showing up to Christmas without a card to let others know he cared. As he aged, this became even more true as he wound down from the legendary fun of his younger years and he put his focus on what was most important in life.
On his journey, though, Paul had a lot of fun. He was a devoted sports fan and talented athlete, playing football while in the Marines and playing softball, basketball, and golf throughout his adult life. His house was filled with University of Michigan gear and he loved to stoke the U of M/MSU rivalry with friends and family. He never gave up hope that he would find the right person with whom to share his life with and he was never too cynical to try. He worried far less about what people thought and far more about what and whom he loved. A Marine veteran, he was proud of his country and his military service, his meticulously manicured lawn and vegetable garden, and the fact that he would never have regrets due to indecision. But above all, he loved his family and often reminded them that while friends may come and go, family will always be there. Unofficially appointed patriarch of his large family (6 siblings), Paul cared deeply for tradition and family celebrations. His pride in his daughter, son-in-law, and three grandchildren was well-known. And although at 6’4” tall, people often found it comical that his teacup yorkie, Maggy, was his best friend, those who knew him best knew his devotion to her was simply a window to the softer side that hid beneath his tough exterior.
He departed this life on 9/12/2020 and was preceded in death by his parents, Phil and Virginia Rainey. The love, support and guidance he gave will be remembered and cherished by his daughter Carrie (Jude) Pereira, his grandchildren, Avery, Asher, and Quinton, his brother, Mark Rainey, his sisters, Mary (Steve) Brigham, Anne (Tom) Lefere, Judy (John) Peiron, Nancy (Kevin) Collins, Lisa (Michael) Petruzzi, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 18 at 10:30 am at St. Martha Catholic Church, 1100 West Grand River, Okemos, MI. The family will receive guests one hour prior at the church. Those desiring may make contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project, 8880 Rio San Diego Drive, Ste. 900, San Diego, CA 92108. Online condolences may be made in Paul’s memory at www.greastlansing.com.
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