Paul Melvin Romel

MSgt. Paul Melvin Romel (Ret.) passed away on 30 January 2026 in Haslett, Michigan at the age of 66. Born 30 May 1959 in Alpena, Michigan to Delbert Joseph Romel and Shirley Romel, Paul was raised there until graduating from Alpena High school and joining the United States Air Force in 1976. In his first assignment, he traveled to Clark Air Force Base, Philippines where his high school sweetheart, Shari Kae Romel, joined him shortly thereafter. The two were married there on 10 August 1978 when they began their lifelong adventure together, later having 2 children, Jason and Jordan. Throughout his military career, Paul was a decorated marksman and received numerous accolades as he honed the mechanical skills that were instilled in him as a young man working with his father at a local Meineke shop. These abilities were also a passion and hobby for him as he enjoyed building and maintaining vehicles of all types, including his beloved collection of race cars. He was always willing to help friends and family with maintenance as well; everyone knew that an oil change or headlight replacement was always gratefully repaid in some denomination of Miller Lite and Fireball. Any given Saturday night, you could likely find him at a racetrack testing the engine in his 1969 Chevelle or toying with his 1969 Camaro. Outside of the garage, Paul was a loving and caring family man. Although he hated to admit it, his compassion showed through his sarcasm and dry wit. Once you earned a nickname of any sort, you knew there was a special place in his heart for you. Those monikers were given to friends and family alike, especially at the track and disc golf course where Paul was a fierce competitor. He appreciated that he could speak his mind and share his views and didn’t care if anyone agreed. Not to be confused with being stubborn with his love, he was deep down a good guy, and the best Papa.

Paul is survived by his wife Shari of Pensacola, Florida and Lansing, Michigan, his son Jason and spouse William of Pensacola, Florida, his daughter Jordan and spouse Randy of Bartlett, Tennessee, as well as his grandchildren Madison (Okinawa, Japan), Kamdyn, and Tesa (Bartlett, Tennessee). He is also survived by his mother, Shirley Rau and sister, Mary Romel, both of Thornton, Colorado, Kathy Miner of West Branch, Michigan, as well as numerous extended family members and friends. He was predeceased by his sister Theresa Romel of Midland, Michigan, and brother John Romel of Haslett, Michigan.

A memorial will be held in Pensacola, Florida later this year. Family and friends will be provided additional information as it becomes available.