Obituary

Remembering Paul J. Petrlich

Paul Joseph Petrlich, aged 60, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

Paul enjoyed golfing in his spare time and was a social, outgoing person who had a gift for being both professional and personable. He was friendly, caring, selfless, and humble, and he was always there for those who needed a friend most. Paul had a special ability to connect with each of his three children individually, taking the time to share in the moments and interests that mattered most to them.

A devoted football fan, Paul, especially enjoyed cheering on the University of Michigan Wolverines. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved making others laugh, whether through his own jokes or while enjoying a good comedy show or stand-up comedian. Paul was also known as an excellent grill master. He took pride in preparing delicious ribs and steaks, and his stuffed mushrooms were a favorite appetizer. Above all, Paul treasured the time spent with the people he loved, and the memories made along the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Alice Petrlich; niece, Kyle Petrlich; mother-in-law, Gayle Rehfeldt. Paul will be lovingly remembered by his children, Max Petrlich and fiancée Vanna Hemmann, Nicholas Petrlich, and Kira Petrlich; granddaughter, Penelope Petrlich; siblings, Marie and Dave Schultz, Karen Kahl, Joan and Barney Nefcy, Patrick and Amy Petrlich; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Sara Allswede.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at St. Mary Magdalen Church, 1253 52nd St. SE, Kentwood with Fr. Peter Vu officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Wednesday 10-11 am at the church prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Gift of Life Michigan. 

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August 19, 2026 12:07pm

I first met Paul he was down stairs at his parents house, he had just had his wisdom teeth out,he loved being at family events, weather it be a golf outing or birthday party, Paul could cook a mean prime rib ,always the best, I will truly miss you Paul, loved you like brother.

— Ron Kahl

August 19, 2026 12:01pm

I first met Paul was in 87 ,I was at his mom and Dad's home Paul was down stairs,he had just got his wisdom teeth removed, went i went to family outings Paul has always friendly and laughable, cheerful, Paul would buy a prime rib ,it would always turn out the best ,I will truly miss Paul, I loved you like a brother .

— Ron Kahl

August 19, 2026 12:00pm

I first met Paul was in 87 ,I was at his mom and Dad's home Paul was down stairs,he had just got his wisdom teeth removed, went i went to family outings Paul has always friendly and laughable, cheerful, Paul would buy a prime rib ,it would always turn out the best ,I will truly miss Paul, I loved you like a brother .

— Ron

August 18, 2026 7:48pm

I knew Paul as a Cannonsburg Elementary parent, but more recently he was my workout partner. He was always kind and encouraging and a great friend. Nick, Max and Kira I am so sorry for your loss. Your dad was a great guy.

— Mary Hefferan

August 18, 2026 12:25pm

Thanx Paul for being such a smart, great and collaborative colleague for so many years at Kellogg's. Amidst working your tail off, you always demonstrated keeping your family first! Max, Nicholas and Kira- your father talked about all of you ALL the time! and shared so many of your milestones 😊 he was so very proud of you. Please accept my sympathies upon the loss of your dear Father.

— leslie maclin

August 15, 2026 9:04pm

Paul and I worked together at Kellogg's and had recently reconnected. He was such a kind man - he had a big impact on me early in my career, taking that extra bit of time and being such a good partner. Paul was a positive influence wherever he was. Prayers for peace for the family.

— Greg Evans

August 15, 2026 8:08pm

May choirs of angels welcome Paul home. Saddened and shocked! I remember his hospitality when we first moved nearby. Grilled steaks for us and our family felt very welcome. My husband, Mike, has kept in touch with him and always been a huge fan. Love to his children and grandchildren.

— Mike and Disnne

August 15, 2026 1:43pm

So sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. Worked with Paul during his Kelloggs / Conagra days. Truly a good person. Nothing is more important in the end. RIP Paul…

— Don Mower

August 14, 2026 11:54pm

From the first day I met Paul in 2015 I felt like he was a life long friend. A polite and considerate guy that made others feel welcomed. We had many good times joking and laughing even when work would get stressful. Heaven will welcome our good buddy.

— Mike Allen

August 14, 2026 1:21pm

I had the privilege of working with Paul at Post. I will always remember him as a friendly, helpful, and genuinely kind person. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside him, and I know he will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. We were fortunate to have Paul as part of the Post family.

— Athena Smith

August 14, 2026 12:51pm

I had the privilege of working with Paul at Post, and he was, without question, my favorite Food Service Director. His support for his team and those around him was unwavering, and he had a remarkable way of making people feel valued and respected. His obituary captures exactly who he was. The world is undoubtedly a little less kind and a little less friendly without him in it.

— Dayna Feist

August 14, 2026 10:26am

Paul and I worked together at Kellogg's and he was my manager for many years. One of my best bosses. He had a photogenic memory for spreadsheets, could do math wicked fast in his brain and was supportive, even through adversary. He loved his home state, the Grand Rapids area. Michigan sports teams, and his children and family. Such a great guy! He will be missed! My deepest sympathy to his family and friends

— Jane Rieger

August 13, 2026 9:50pm

Paul and I worked together at Kellogg’s . He was a friendly, kind and well spoken gentleman. He will be missed by all who knew him. My condolences to the family.

— Pete Miras

August 13, 2026 7:00pm

I first met Paul through Pat, my business partner, more than 35 years ago. I have many fond memories of playing golf with Paul, including being league partners, as well as our motorhome golf trip to Oklahoma with Paul, his brother, his dad, brother-in-law Barney, and several friends. I always appreciated Paul’s cheerful personality, positive attitude, and friendship. He was a genuinely good person, and I will miss him. Joyce and I offer our deepest sympathy to his family during this difficult time. Mark Smith

— Mark Smith

August 13, 2026 6:10pm

My sincere condolences to the entire Petrlich family, including his Post family. He was a funny, smart, and genuine human being who was a pleasure to work with. He will be missed by many. - Leah Vergara

— Leah Vergara

August 13, 2026 2:57pm

Please accept my condolences to the entire Petrilich family on the passing of Paul. I had the opportunity to meet him several times with his brother Pat and was lucky to have the opportunity to know him.

— Rick King

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