PIOPOLIS – Paul Leo Wellen, 89 of Piopolis, IL, went to be with the Lord on Friday, December 15, 2023 at his home surrounded by his family. Paul was a lifelong member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Paul was born March 23, 1934 in Belle City, IL the son of Andrew and Isabella (Karcher) Wellen.

Paul is survived by his wife Helen of 64 years, as well as his five children, including Kenny (Kellie) Wellen, Marvin (Teresa) Wellen, Jim (Janet) Wellen, Diane (Tom) Mitchell and John (Debbie) Wellen. Also surviving are 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and his nephew Charlie (Kay).

Paul married Helen Hopfinger on August 13, 1959 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Piopolis, IL. He worked as a farmer, loved to play the guitar and sing, and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and he loved making homemade ice cream. Paul was a member of the Hillbilly Buddies Band.

Paul’s family would like to give “special recognition and gratitude” to the beloved caregivers for the care given to him throughout the years and the help given to our family. We could not have managed without you – THANK YOU.

Paul is preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Isabell Wellen, a twin sister Pauline (Henry) Kaufman and a brother Charles.

Visitation will be held at Harre Funeral Home, McLeansboro, IL, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 19, 2023. and a Rosary Service will be held at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday morning, December 20, at 10:30 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Piopolis with Father Slawomir Ptak officiating. Burial will be held in St. John Baptist Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will be accepted at Harre Funeral Home.