Paul Andrew Leary

Paul Andrew Leary (known to friends as Paulie or Big Guy), age 55, of Normal, died at 9:19 p.m., Tuesday, June 28, 2016 at his home. He was surrounded by his loving family, as he left his worldly body, with all its pain, and entered into his new life of peace and joy. He will be forever missed.His funeral will be at 12:30 p.m., Saturday, July 2, 2016 at St. Patrick Church of Merna, Bloomington with Monsignor Gerald T. Ward officiating. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Normal with a celebration of life to follow. Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m., Friday, July 1, 2016 at St. Patrick Church of Merna.Memorials may be made to the family to be used for the Leary childrens education expenses.Paul was born on October 23, 1960 in Bloomington, IL to Mike and Carol Leary. He graduated from Bloomington High School in 1978 and married Jodi Bush in 1982. Paul and Jodi were blessed with 4 beautiful children. Paul taught them the value of hard work, commitment, loyalty, and faith. His children will forever remember him as a loving, funny, and, sometimes stubborn dad, who encouraged them to pursue their dreams and never give up on themselves.Paul is survived by his loving wife, Jodi Leary of Normal; his precious children, Katie (Lucas and his daughter, Ashleigh Killian) Leary of Bloomington, Michael of Normal, Daniel of Bloomington, and Mariah (Joe Santos) Leary of Bloomington; his dear mother, Carol Leary of Bloomington; and close siblings, Tim Leary (Cam) and Debbie (Chuck) Gerwick, both of Bloomington; his parents-in-law, Kathy and David Yoder of Danvers, sisters-in-law, Jill Manns of Florida and Lori Edwards of Bloomington, nephews; Patrick (Heather) Leary, Jon Gerwick, TJ Manns, Timmy Manns, Brandon Edwards, nieces; Megan Leary, Erin Leary, Elizabeth Gerwick, Kishele Nichols, Whitney Manns, and Courtney Manns, 2 aunts, Pat Bell of Arizona, and Ruth Leary of Florida; as well as numerous cousins, great nieces and great nephews. Paul, also, leaves behind his 2 beloved dogs, Riley and Chance, who will be lost without him.Paul is preceded in death by his father, Michael F. Leary, grandmothers Rosilla Leary and MariernBertram.Paul was a talented mechanic and all around Mr.-Fix-it. He worked for IL Power/Ameren as a mechanic for over 35 years and was known for his strong work ethic and witty personality. There was not a person who didnt like Paul. He was a dedicated member of St. Patricks Church of Merna, and the Bloomington Council of the Knights of Columbus.Paul fought a 4 year battle with prostate cancer in the most courageous, strong, and heroic fashion possible. His strength and courage was not only noticed by family and friends, but by every doctor, nurse, and medical professional who cared for him. He was truly loved and admired by all.The family would like to thank Dr. Bahnu Vakkalanka, Dr. Vicken Challian, Dr. Steve Troyanovich, Tate Gaines, Advocate BroMenn Hospice, as well as, all of the nurses, and techs at the Community Cancer Center for their efforts, care, and compassion they showed to Paul and his family. A special thank you goes out to all of our friends and co-workers for their support and understanding over the last 4 years. Last, but certainly not least, our thanks, honor, and praise goes to our Saviour and Deliverer for blessing us with Paul. He is at peace.