Paul James Larabel

Paul James Larabel, age 34 of Grand Rapids, was called to his heavenly home to be with his Lord and Saviour, Jesus, on Sunday, January 6, 2019. Paul was preceded in death by his brother, Michael; his paternal and maternal grandparents, Peg and Tom Larabel, and Mel and Betsy Kimball. He will be dearly missed by the love of his life, Tina (Shumard) Larabel; his children, Margaret Mae and Isaac Michael Larabel, Braden James (Shumard) Dalm; his parents, Mike and Pat Larabel; his parents-in-law, Todd and Debbie Shumard; his brother, Nick and Shelly Larabel; his sister, Marie and Bob Griffin; his sisters-in-law, Denise (Jeff Alent) and Julie Shumard; his niece, Olivia; and nephews, Ian and Ben Larabel, Tyler Larabel, Jacob Griffin; great nephew, Odin Larabel; many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. Paul attended St. John Vianney Catholic Elementary School, Catholic Central High School and Grand Valley State University. Paul loved sports and played varsity basketball and football for the Catholic Central Cougars. He was an avid golfer and loved being outdoors. Paul was an intelligent, quiet man who loved to explore the stars and the earthly landscape. He never stopped pursuing knowledge and loved to problem solve and challenge his faith to explore the written word of God. He loved to help others and, as he wished, was a Gift of Life donor. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 11, at 11:00 a.m., at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 1935 Plymouth SE, Grand Rapids, with Fr. Troy Nevins and Fr. John Vallier presiding. Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood, and one hour prior to Mass at church. A Vigil Service will be held 7:30 p.m on Thursday at the funeral home. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.