Paul James Smolar

Smolar - Paul James, 83, of Zeeland, MI, formerly of Elton Heights, passed into eternal glory on Thursday, May 21, 2015 at Providence Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Zeeland, MI. Paul was born on May 30, 1931 in Johnstown, son of the late George and Barbara (Stanek) Smolar. He married Evelyn Kachmar in August of 1958. She preceded him in death on December 22, 2010. Also precede in death by his son, Michael Smolar; brothers, Joseph, Frank, Andrew, George Jr., and William; sisters, Ann, Dorothy Novosel, Matilda Gabany, and Helen Salata. Paul is survived by his daughter Paula (David) DeVos of Grand Haven, MI; grandchildren, Aaron (Afton) DeVos, Grand Rapids, MI and Emily (Frank) Smith, Frankfort, IL; great-grandsons, Zachary and Colton DeVos both of Grand Rapids, MI; sister, Mary Adams of Cleveland, OH; and several nieces and nephews. Paul worked for Monroe Systems for Business for 35 years and upon retirement became a van driver for special needs children. He was a member of St. Benedict Catholic Church, Geistown. He enjoyed fishing, planting flowers and maintaining his lawn. Paul was an avid sports fan and especially loved watching the Pittsburgh Steelers. His family is truly appreciative of the wonderful care provided to Paul by the Providence staff and will always be grateful for their love and kindness. The family will greet relatives and friends from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, where Vigil for the deceased will be held. Funeral Mass will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday at St. Benedict Catholic Church, Fr. David S. Peles, Pastor. Committal will be at Grandview Cemetery Mausoleum. Memorial contributions may be given in Paul’s name to Providence Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, 285 N. State Street, Zeeland, MI 49464 or to a charity of your choice. On line condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.