Matthew A. "Matt" Paul

Matthew A. 'Matt' Paul, 26, Caledonia, passed away on Friday, August 16, 2013. He was born in Park Ridge, Illinois on July 19, 1987; the son of Anthony and Jennifer (Rottman) Paul. Matt graduated in 2005 from Belvidere High School. He then attended NIU, graduating with a bachelor's degree in economics. Matt loved the outdoors; he was fond of animals and enjoyed camping and fishing with friends. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a tremendous work ethic. He was a gentle giant and was loved by his family and countless friends who knew him. Matt had a passion for astronomy and science. He was classic country music enthusiast and an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears.

He is survived by his loving parents, Anthony and Jennifer Paul; brothers, Jeffrey (Melissa) Paul, Michael Paul and Nicholas Paul; sister, Jilliana Paul; uncles, Bernard (Deb) Paul, Michael (Sue) Paul, Joseph (Nancy) Paul, Gary (Eileen) Paul, James (Patricia) Rottman and Edward (April) Rottman; grandmothers, Vivian Paul and Laurita Rottman; numerous cousins and friends. Predeceased by his grandfathers, Bernard Paul and Kenneth Rottman.

Funeral Mass at 11:00 am on Wednesday, August 21, 2013 in St. James Catholic Church, 535 Caswell St, Belvidere. Entombment in Highland Garden of Memories. Visitation from 3:00 – 8:00 pm on Tuesday, August 20, 2013 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. To extend condolences visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com