Paul J. VanNieuwenhuyse age 68 of Keokuk, IA, formerly of Clinton, passed away Saturday Oct. 23, 2021 at Blessing Health Keokuk in Keokuk, IA from COVID complications. A family prayer service will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday Oct. 27th at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in DeWitt, IA. Cremation rites have been accorded and burial will be held at St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery, Clinton at a later date. The Pape Funeral Home, Clinton is assisting the family. Memorials may be directed to the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI). Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com.
Paul was born on Oct. 25, 1952 in Clinton, Iowa, the son of Gaston and Irene (DeVinck) VanNieuwenhuyse. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School, Clinton in 1971. He was active with the Boy Scouts as a canoe guide and earned his Eagle Scout, where he was awarded the Order of the Arrows Award. He will be remembered by his family as a gentle soul who loved the outdoors. He was an avid bird watcher and was a valued participant in many Christmas bird counts. Paul enjoyed writing poetry.
Paul is survived by his mother, Irene VanNieuwenhuyse of DeWitt, IA; two sisters, Jean (Jim) Adams and Mary McLaughlin both of DeWitt, IA; six nieces and nephews; nine great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father and a sister, Sally.
I met my dear friend Paul in 1970 when we were both new guides at the Boy Scout canoe base out of Ely, MN. We guided together for 2 summers, relishing the wilderness and the chance to fool around playing voyageurs! I visited him in college and in Clinton a few times and he came to Minnesota to see me, but our paths eventually diverged and we were left with phone calls, always planning another canoe trip. He is a deep spirit whose time with us was too short and his presence too profound to be lost forever. I carry a piece of his heart with me every day, and know he does the same in return. One of the very finest men I have ever been graced to know.
I am very proud to say that Paul was my uncle and Godfather. He always inquired about my spiritual journeys and quests for knowledge and offered what guidance he could. Paul was a child of God. He always took a special interest in me and loved me very much. He had a very difficult life but never lost his faith in God. I am proud he was my Godfather.
Thank you Kelly, You know you were very special to Paul and he loved you very much. Although he suffered many obstacles and difficulties, he always thought of you, his Godchild. Love you, Mom
Oh, Paul ..❤️ I heard Bob Dylan came on the other day and thought about him and how I would always try to find the music he so dearly cherished… it would have such a calming effect for him..(and me.. Lol!) I so loved taking care of him. Rest In Peace my friend.
Thank you Janelle, I always felt comforted knowing you were taking care of Paul on his many ICU adventures. We truly appreciated your patience and (patient) relationship – ICU and Bob Dylan – became a frequent thing one year, right? Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Paul’s Family
I met Paul in ninth grade and we immediately became good friends. I liked his relaxed approach to life and his sense of humor. We shared our views of the 60’s unrest as we canoed the Mississippi, learned to play guitar together, waited anxiously for each new Beatle song release, and chased birds along the River valley. Paul influenced my life in many ways and I will miss him dearly.
Thank you Tom, You were a cherished friend of Paul’s and he often spoke of you fondly. You summed up some of his most endearing qualities, the great outdoors, his humor, the Beatles and BIRDS!
Thank you for your condolences,
Paul’s Family
So sorry to hear of Paul’s death. He was a gentle spirit. Condolences to all Paul’s family & friends
Just talked with Paul Friday and tried today to wish him a happy 69th. His knowlege of birding helped me appreciate the variety in God’s creation.
Thank you Roger. So thoughtful of you to be thinking about Paul right before his birthday. Many have been positively influenced by his knowledge and love for birds. This was his passion.
Thank you for your condolences.
Paul’s Family
Thank you, Noreen, for your condolences. Much appreciated.
Paul’s Family