Paul Messersmith

Paul Messersmith, age 61, of Petersburg, passed away on Thursday, November 1, 2018.

Paul was born on August 25, 1957 the son of Wilbur D. and Velda Hayden Messersmith.

He is survived by his life partner, Sharon, mother, Velda Plopper of Athens, two daughters, Angela Drake (James Jenkins) and Alicia Drake (Josh Claussen), one son, Richard (Cassie) Drake IV; two sisters, Sandra (Larry) Massey, Kathy (Tom) Mileham; one brother, Kurt Messersmith; thirteen grandchildren; seven great – grandchildren; as well as one nephew, Adam (Bridget) Rebbe; one niece, Peggy (Kyle) Windisch; as well as many friends.

Paul is preceded in death by his father, Wilbur; stepfather, Maurice Plopper; grandparents, Joe and Sylvia Hayden and Edward and Charlotte Messersmith.

He was employed by the United States Postal Service for 20 years. Previously he worked for Dunbar Towing, Road District #4 and drove for Kimmerling Trucking. Paul enjoyed the grandchildren and great grandchildren and babysat often. He enjoyed playing cards with his friends, doing demo derbies, working on cars and Sudoku puzzles, 6 Flags vacations, helping friends and family, telling jokes and stories and was especially proud of his job at the post office and getting one of the first new trucks for his route. Paul never knew a stranger and was very well liked and will definitely be missed by all of those he touched in his life.

Visitation for Paul will be held on Monday, November 5, 2018 from 5-8 PM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home. Services will be held on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 at 10 AM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens, IL.

Burial will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Petersburg.

Rev. Ron Ferricks will be officiating.

Memorials can be given to “Petersburg Food Pantry” or “Menard County Animal Control.”