Paul Peterman

Paul Alan Peterman died peacefully at Bronson Methodist Hospital on May 8, 2024, after suffering from a second stroke. His first stroke was three years ago this June and left him wheelchair bound.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon, of 48 years; his stepchildren: Russell (Billie) Berryman, and Wendy (Kurt) Swinehart. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Mackenzie Swinehart, Jordyn (Jason) Swinehart Walter, Joshua (Madison Duell) Swinehart, Kevin Berryman, and Kaylee Berryman; brothers: Richard (Dorothy) Peterman from Dubuque, Iowa, Garry (Deb) Peterman from Dickson, Tennessee, and sister Beth (Tom) Bonnema from Lawton, Michigan; sisters-in-law Connie (Paul) Harney from Lancaster, California, Peggy (Larry) Owens from Lilburn, Georgia, Debbie (Jerry) Lemay from Marinette, Wisconsin; brother-in-law Kevin (Vicky) DeMille from Stephenson, Michigan as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Peterman and his parents Theodore and Pauline Peterman.

Paul grew up in Portage, Michigan where he graduated from Portage Central High School in 1969. He went on to earn his Associates Degree in Science from Kalamazoo Valley Community College.

While in high school and in his early twenties, he was a drummer in a band. He had a great love of music. After high school, he worked at a local restaurant as a busboy, which led to him learning about being a chef. He worked in a few restaurants in the Kalamazoo area, the last being the Craftsman Chop Company in Portage, Michigan, until his retirement.

Paul’s first love was family and many days and weekends were spent watching his grandkids during their sports events and taking care of his grand dogs.

Following Paul’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a memorial gathering will be held on Monday, May 27, 2024 at Calvary Community Church: 7829 5th St. Mattawan, MI 49071. Visiting will be from 1:30 to 3:00 pm with a service following at 3:00. 

The family is being assisted by Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home; 5975 Lovers Lane in Portage 269 344-5600.

Donations in Paul’s memory can be made to the ASPCA. He loved dogs and his golden retriever, Zoey, was always by his side.