Age 74, of Crown Point, IN. Formerly of Minooka and Joliet, IL, at VNA Arthur B. and Ethel V. Horton Hospice Center with his wife by his side. Born September 9, 1949, in Joliet, IL, to Peter and Rose (Trizzino) Pullara. Paul grew up in Joliet and attended St. Mary's Carmelite grade school and Joliet East High School. Paul married Cheryl (Sanford) Pullara on June 13, 1970. He retired from the United States Postal Service in 1995. Paul coached youth basketball, baseball, and football in the Joliet area for many years. He was an avid fisherman who enjoyed cigars, jigsaw puzzles, and a good glass of chianti. Above all else, Paul loved his family. He was happiest surrounded by his children and grandchildren while enjoying a meal. Affectionately known to his grandchildren as "Papa", he faithfully attended as many games and performances as possible. Paul had a story for every situation or occasion including many fishing stories for anyone who would listen. Paul was also a great dancer and twirled his love, Cheryl, around the dance floor at many celebrations. His smile, laugh, and big personality will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. "We love Papa in our heart."

Paul is survived by his wife of 53 years, Cheryl. He is also survived by his sons, Kevin (Kelly) of Minooka, IL, Joseph (Lindsay) of Tyrone, PA, Mark (Bridget) of Crown Point, IN, and Jason (Erin) of Lafayette, IN. Paul leaves ten grandchildren, Gianna and Matteo, Sophia and Dominic (Nico), Victoria House, and Natalie House, and Lucca, Angelo, Simi, and Mazie. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Sandra Spisak, Donna (Dave) Hanus, Diane Sanford, and brother-in-law, Tom Sanford. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Rose, his brothers, Peter and Bernard, sisters-in-law, Catherine "Marie" Rothamel and Charlene Pool, brothers-in-law, Larry Rothamel and Jerry Pool.

Paul's family would like to express heartfelt thanks to dear friends, Steve and Sandy Furman. We also greatly appreciate the support of family, friends, and neighbors.

Funeral services for Paul R. Pullara will be held on Monday January 29, 2024 at 9:00 AM, from the Carlson Holmquist Sayles Funeral Home to St. Mary's Church in Minooka for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred for future disbursement to VNA Arthur B. and Ethel V. Horton Hospice Center and St. Jude Children's Hospital in Paul's name. Visitation will be Sunday at the funeral home January 28th from 2 to 6 PM. For information call 815 744 0022 or visit www.chsfuneral.com.