Paul L. Wixom

Paul L. Wixom, 88, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on September 5, 2025. Born on December 22, 1936, in Janesville, Wisconsin, Paul was the beloved son of Clifford and Catherine (Vickerman) Wixom. The youngest of seven children, Paul grew up surrounded by the richness of family life on the Wixom Family Farm in Milton, Wisconsin – a place that remained dear to him and his care throughout his life.

Paul attended Oakdale Elementary, a one-room schoolhouse serving grades 1-8, and later graduated from Milton Union High School in 1954. Following graduation, he proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps. After his service, Paul pursued higher education at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa and went on to earn his master’s degree in counseling from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb.

In 1958, Paul began a career in education that would span more than five decades and touch countless lives. He first taught social studies and Spanish at Wyanet High School in Wyanet, Illinois. By 1960, he had found his calling as a school counsellor, serving at Wilson Junior High and then Auburn High School in Rockford.

In 1968, Paul became an elementary principal in Rockford Public Schools, serving Henrietta, Royal Avenue, and Montague Schools until 1971. From 1971 – 1985, he was the principal of Martin Luther King Elementary School, and from 1985 until his retirement in 1993, he led A.C. Thompson Elementary School. A dedicated and innovative administrator, Paul was proud to be the first Rockford School District administrator to receive the prestigious “Those Who Excel” award in 1974.

Although he officially retired in 1993, Paul could not stay away from the work he loved. From 1993 – 2009, he remained a familiar presence in Rockford Public Schools, serving as a substitute principal, counselor, truancy officer, and supervisor of testing. He also counseled adults in districts continuing education programs and served as an RAI counselor at Flinn Middle School. Wherever students or staff needed him, Paul showed up.

Outside of his work in education, Paul lived a life full of joy, family, and tradition. A committed Green Bay Packers season ticket holder, he rarely missed a game and even proudly attended a super bowl in which his Packers played. He cherished time at his cottage in Minocqua, Wisconsin, with his wife Barb and their beloved dog, Lady. Summers found him fishing from his pontoon, while winters often included trips to Hilton Head Island – a yearly tradition that brought him great happiness. Paul also enjoyed golfing, traveling, and gardening, especially tending to the vibrant flowers that made his yard a neighborhood delight. His passion for gardening lives on in his daughter, Lisa, who carries forward his love for creating beauty outdoors.

Paul also deeply valued his roots in Milton and the lifelong friendships he built there. Almost every year, he gathered with classmates from Milton High School class of 1954 for cherished reunions – whether sharing lunch and a play at the Fireside in Fort Atkinson, holding picnics in LaMar Park, enjoying lunches at the Junction Pub, or breakfasts at the Family Restaurant in Milton. These traditions brough him great joy and connection.

Paul and Lady also brought joy to their community as part of the “Goose Patrol” with the Rockford Park District – a role they both relished.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Sesili “SiSi” Khachirashvilli, Paul’s devoted full-time caregiver for over three years. They also thank Sherry Anderson, Christina Anderson, Ineta Leerhoff, and the Mercy Hospice Healthcare team for their compassion and support.

Paul is survived by his daughter, Lisa (Brian) Meade; his son, Paul F. (Denise) Wixom; his stepsons, Steve (Mary) Johnson, step-granddaughter Sabrina Johnson, and Dan Johnson; his grandchildren, Lindsey and Devin Wixom; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his first wife, Mary Ann Wixom; their son, Patrick C. Wixom; wife, Barbara Wixom; parents; and siblings, Thomas Wixom, Irene Hart, Virginia Driscoll, Catherine (Betty) Drenning, Robert Wixom, and Eugene Wixom.

Paul’s legacy is one of service, kindness, and love. He was a proud Marine, a devoted educator, a loyal friend, and a caring father and grandfather. He will be remembered for his wisdom, his humor, and the countless ways he enriched the lives of others. His influence will live on in many students, colleagues, friends, and loved ones who were fortunate to know him.

Funeral arrangements are being coordinated by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. A Visitation will be on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108. A Funeral Mass will be on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Peter Church, 1243 N. Church Street, Rockford, IL 61103. Paul will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Milton, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Yeshua Catholic International Leadership Institute, cases close to Paul’s heart.