Paul Lawrence Heilman

Paul Lawrence Heilman loved traveling around the U.S. It was only fitting that during a road trip with his 2nd wife Marilyn, Paul took one final journey, peacefully departing this world Nov. 23, 2018, in Cedar City, UT, where he joined in death his 1st wife of nearly 60 years, Lamoyl.

Paul was also preceded in death by his siblings John, Leo and George. He is survived by his 2nd wife Marilyn and his sisters Irene Imbery, Betty Imbery, and Bernie Johnson. A family man to the core, Paul also leaves behind his five children Lyle, Linda, Dianne, Melodie and Nancy; 18 grandchildren; and two dozen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Marilyn’s children: Michelle Connelly; Lisa and Steve Baird; and Melissa Connelly; their six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Paul was born in Bowdle, South Dakota, on Jan. 31, 1927. Throughout his life, Paul devoted himself to building homes, working hard, and caring for his family. Memories of Paul often include him playing the accordion, enjoying a hand of pinochle, and dancing to German polkas. He valued the Heilman tradition of making German sausage from scratch, a tradition passed down to his children.

Family and friends will be celebrating Paul’s life at a rosary at 6 p.m. Dec. 14 2018 at the Langevin El Paraiso Funeral Home in Yakima.

A Catholic mass will be held at 10 a.m. Dec. 15 at Holy Redeemer Church. Directly after the service, there will be a procession going to the cemetery, as well as a reception at the church hall.