Paul D. Hein

Born on May 26, 1935, in Lansing, Michigan, Paul was the son of Jonathan and Ada Belle (Horn) Hein. He spent his formative years in Lansing and remained deeply connected to the community throughout his life. He attended the old brick North School and graduated from Holt High School before pursuing higher education. Paul earned an associate degree from Lansing Community College and later completed his bachelor's degree at John Wesley College in Owosso, Michigan.

A man of deep faith, Paul was a lifelong member of Pennway Church of God. His spiritual commitment was a guiding force throughout his life. He served as the church’s historian and contributed extensively to its boards and committees. His passion for preserving history extended beyond the church walls—he devoted countless hours to researching his family’s ancestry and chronicling the rich history of Lansing and Pennway Church itself.

Paul proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958. During his service, he earned a Sharpshooter badge and was honorably discharged. Following his military service, Paul began a long and fulfilling career with the Michigan Department of Transportation. Over 37 years, he rose to the position of Financial Specialist before retiring in 1997. He took particular pride in his work on major freeway projects in the Detroit area and had a special interest in railroad trunk lines, grade crossings, and upgrading warning devices.

Paul’s love for history was matched by his love for people. Known for his unique sense of humor and infectious smile, he had an extraordinary ability to connect with others through storytelling. Whether recounting tales of family life or sharing insights about local history or church milestones, Paul brought warmth and wisdom to every conversation.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Marietta; his children: Kevin (Marla) Hein, Dan (Brenda) Hein, and Julie Hein; grandchildren: Kyle (Michelle) Hein, Kadie Hein (Eddie Ostrander), Samantha Markus (Jeremy Woodard), Allison (Nicholas) James, Nikolas (Alyssa) Hein, and Matthew (Mara) Underwood; and great-grandchildren: Easton Adams, Holland Hein, Piper Hein, Jackson Tollefson, Aubree Tollefson, Andersyn Hein, Peyton James, and Samantha Underwood. Paul is also survived by his sister Martha (Darryl) Middleton and many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; stepmother Lorraine (Simmons) Hein; brothers Donald (Beulah) Hein, Richard Hein, Lawrence (Donna) Hein, James (Joan) Hein, David Hein, Jonathan Hein, Carl Hein; and sisters Doris Hein and Nellie (Fred) Gunderman.

Paul leaves behind a legacy rooted in faith, family devotion, historical preservation, and public service. His compassionate spirit and unwavering dedication to those he loved will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A celebration of Paul's life will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 11 AM at Pennway Church of God, 1101 East Cavanaugh Road, Lansing, MI 48910. The family will gather at church beginning at 10 AM until the time of service. Military Honors will be rendered under the auspices of the United States Army.

Memorial Donations in Paul's honor may be directed to the Pennway Church of God, 1101 East, Cavanaugh Road, Lansing, Michigan 48910 or Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 S Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813. (please see links below.)

To watch the service on Friday, please click on: https://www.youtube.com/@PennwayChurch/streams