Mr. Cleland worked 21 years at McQuay-Norris and was the custodian at Union United Methodist Church before his retirement. Paul was a United States Air Force veteran, a member of Union United Methodist Church as well as a member of the Biebel Fishing Club. Paul loved the great outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening and spending time with his family.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Paul B. and Elma V., nee Hibner, Cleland; and his stepfather, Robert Bramstedt.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Barbara A., nee Hassebrock, Cleland, whom he married on October 15, 1960;
his son, Bartlett D. (Jennifer) Cleland of Vienna, VA;
his daughter, Angel D. (fiancé, Hector Ruiz) Gee of Belleville, IL;
four grandchildren, Cayden, Christian, Madison, and Avery;
a brother-in-law, Roland A. (Brenda) Hassebrock;
a niece, Mindy;
four nephews, Doug, Zachary, Andrew, and Albert;
cousins;
and a Godchild, Pamela Peil.
Memorials may be made to United Methodist Children’s Home of Southern Illinois, 2023 Richview Road, Mt. Vernon, IL 62864. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit with the family from 9:00 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday, August 15, 2016, in the atrium at Union United Methodist Church, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. Monday, August 15, 2016, in the sanctuary of Union United Methodist Church with Rev. Jay Krumeich officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
Condolences Left For Paul Cleland
Dear Barb, Judie & I are unable to attend Sonny’s funeral service, but we wanted you and family to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this tough time with Sonny’s passing. The small amount of time that I was able to spend with Sonny were memorable and enjoyable and I shall miss him at our class lunches we have from time to time over the years. Be at peace knowing that Sonny is now with the Lord.
Ronnie Mueller, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, 71909
Hi Barb. So glad we got to visit with you and Paul at the class reunion last Saturday night. So many good memories in high school and after we graduated. Many good times at dances. Love Lucille and Vern Moehrs.
Lucille Griesbaum Moehrs, Waterloo, IL, 62298
Bart and Barb and family please accept my prayers for all of you – I hope happy memories will bring you comfort now –
Judy Schmidt, Lincoln, NE, 68506
There are no words to express my sorrow for your families loss. Sonny is at peace now telling jokes to the angels. My love to your family. Love Geri Dee
Geri Dee, El Mirage, Arizona, 85335
Barb
God’s comfort and peace surround you. My sincere sympathy.
Carol Ropos Bell, Belleville, IL, 62223
Dear Barb, We just saw this today and while we know Sonny has had more than his share of health problems it is still incredibly hard to believe he is gone. We are extremely sorry for your loss, the world has lost quite the character plus a loving husband and father. God Bless you and God Bless Sonny. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Much love, David and Pat
David and Pat Fischer, Windsor, Co, 80550