Frank L. Paun

Frank L. Paun, 90, Rockford, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2020.
He was the son of Thomas Anton and Mary Elizabeth (Perkovich) Paun born on the family farm March 26, 1930, in Sherwood, WI.
Frank was a 1949 graduate of Granton High School in Granton, Wisconsin and lived in the Sherwood area until he was drafted into the service.
Frank married his best friend and high school sweetheart, Virginia “Ginny” A. Larson on December 30, 1950 in Bakerville, WI. Frank served in the United States Army from 1951-1953. After moving to Rockford in 1953, Frank completed his apprenticeship and became a carpenter, working many years in home construction. During the steep recession of 1982, Frank found his calling as a carpenter at the Rockford Housing Authority, thanks to his friend, Dave. He also used his carpentry skills to build decks and did other home renovation projects for his family and friends.
Frank loved sports. In high school, he was the pitcher for the Granton Bull Dogs and tried out for the Brooklyn Dodgers. He coached his son’s Little League baseball teams and never missed his grandkids sporting events. He took great pride in watching the Cubs win the 2016 World Series. He also loved the Packers, and their many victories over Ginny’s Bears.
Frank and Ginny enjoyed many road trips all over the country. Back in the 60’s you packed the family in the car and hit the road. Some of their favorite trips were dining on lobster in Maine, gambling in Las Vegas and walking the beaches in Florida. He enjoyed gardening and loved to grow large pumpkins for the grandkids. He cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren and developed a wonderful bond with all of them.
Frank is lovingly survived by his children; Gary of Ramona, CA, James (Sally) of Rockton, IL and Michael of Caledonia, IL; grandchildren, Jessica, Joshua (Marlyn), Julia (Mike), Brent, Matthew and Nicholas; great-grandchildren, Leigha, Alex, Ivan, Jaden and Isabella; siblings Tommy (Janette) and Martha (Bob); sister-in-law, Ellen. Predeceased by his wife Ginny on August 18, 2000; parents; sisters and brothers-in-law, Helen (Dick) and Mary Jane (Vern); brothers, Joe (Helen) and John and daughters-in-law, Mary and Pam.
The family would like to recognize Dad’s special caregiver, Bozena, for her love and support. Her home cooked meals and frequent visits by her grandkids’ brought him great joy. Also, thank you to OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center for celebrating Dad’s 90th birthday with cake and ice cream and FaceTiming the family during the COVID-19 shutdown.
A private funeral Mass will be celebrated by Fr. Kaim S.T.L. at Holy Family Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m. Monday, May 11, 2020. However, due to the Covid-19 crisis, the Mass will also be live streamed for friends and extended family to view by following the link at www.holyfamilyrockford.org. Burial will be in Scandinavian Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Frank’s name to the American Cancer Society or Holy Family Catholic Church. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.