Paul E. Greenawalt

Paul E. Greenawalt, age 83, of Frankfort, Illinois, passed away suddenly on June 5, 2026. Born on March 12, 1943, and raised on Chicago’s South Side, Paul lived a life rooted in faith, family, friendship, and service. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he was known for his warmth, sense of humor, unwavering loyalty, and deep love of music, sports, and history.

The only child of Paul H. and Dorothy (Tuite) Greenawalt, Paul made family the center of his life. Paul was the beloved husband of Patricia K. Greenawalt, with whom he shared nearly 60 years of marriage. Together they built a life filled with faith, family, friendship, adventure, and the arts. Patricia’s passing in December 2025 left a void that could never be filled. Their partnership was marked by unwavering devotion, countless travels, a shared love of music and theater, and a commitment to supporting the arts. Whether attending philharmonic concerts, exploring flea markets and estate sales, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Paul and Pat cherished every moment together.

Paul attended St. Sabina Grammar School and was a proud graduate of Leo High School, Class of 1961. He continued his education at DePaul University, remaining a lifelong Blue Demons fan.

Paul spent 30 years at Nuveen as a municipal bond underwriter, earning the respect of clients and colleagues through his professionalism, integrity, and dedication.

Of all his accomplishments, Paul was most proud of his three sons: James, Paul (Eileen), and Matthew (Susan). His greatest joy was being “Poppy” to his beloved grandchildren: Conor, Campbell, Emily, Jack, Landon, and Danica. At baseball games, football games, theater performances, swim meets, soccer matches, golf outings, and every activity in between, his grandchildren could always count on Poppy cheering them on. He also cherished godchildren, Maria (Troy) Baird and Jimmy Griffin, and held them in a special place in his heart.

A lifelong lover of music and theater, Paul was a dedicated supporter and board member of the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra and believed deeply in advancing its mission within the community. He also shared his love of music as a member of the Lincoln-Way Area Chorale, where he found great joy in performing.

A faithful member of St. Anthony Parish in Frankfort, Paul was an enthusiastic sponsor and mentor in the RCIA program. He was deeply respected for his guidance, steady presence, and generous spirit as he accompanied others on their journey into the Catholic faith.

An avid Chicago Cubs fan, Paul remained loyal through every season, celebrating the triumphs and enduring the disappointments with equal passion. His love for sports extended well beyond baseball, and he rarely passed up an opportunity to attend a game or share in the excitement of a big sporting event.

Paul was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia K. Greenawalt; his parents, Paul H. Greenawalt and Dorothy (Tuite) Greenawalt; his sisters-in-law, Dorothy Conroy and Terry Judd Griffin; and his brothers-in-law, Bill Conroy and Dr. John Griffin.

He is also survived by his loving in-laws: James “Thady” (Diane) Griffin, Mary Griffin, Thom Griffin, Kathy (“Ram”) Ramanujam, and Maureen “Rene” (Bob) Mende. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Paul will be remembered as a trusted friend, devoted father and grandfather, and a man whose kindness, generosity, quick wit, and genuine interest in others brought comfort and joy to those around him. His legacy lives on in the family he treasured, the friendships he cultivated, and the example of loyalty, kindness, and love he leaves behind. Family and friends may find comfort in knowing that Paul is reunited with Pat, his beloved wife and best friend.

Visitation will be held at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 7659 W. Sauk Trail, Frankfort, Illinois, on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra or Leo High School, reflecting Paul’s lifelong devotion to the arts and his deep belief in the value of Catholic education.

https://ipomusic.org/support/honor-and-memorial-gifts/

https://leohighschool.org/