Paul David Payne, known to family and friends simply as Paul, Dad, or Papa, passed away on July 16, 2026, in Okauchee, Wisconsin, at the age of 75 following complications of cancer.

Paul was born on February 17, 1951, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, to Irvin Earl and Sharon June Payne. He grew up with a strong sense of family and carried those values throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents and by his wife, Julie Lynn Payne, who was the center of his life and his partner in all things.

Paul was a loving, generous, and creative man whose presence brought comfort and joy to those around him. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, an accomplishment that reflected his commitment to learning and personal growth. His education helped shape a life marked by responsibility, hard work, and a steady devotion to the people and projects that mattered most to him.

For 35 years, Paul and Julie were self-employed and owned and operated a group home and a self-storage warehouse. Their work together was more than a business endeavor. It was a shared life built on dedication, perseverance, and a genuine concern for others. Paul took pride in his work and in the relationships he built through the years. His strong work ethic and dependable nature earned the respect of many, and his steady hand helped guide the success of the family businesses for three decades.

Paul was also a talented artist whose creativity was a meaningful part of who he was. He had an eye for detail and an appreciation for beauty that extended into many areas of his life. Whether he was creating art or enjoying the simple pleasures of a favorite pastime, he brought thoughtfulness and care to everything he did. He enjoyed playing golf and billiards, and he found happiness in the companionship, challenge, and relaxation those activities provided. His interests reflected his easygoing spirit and his ability to find joy in both quiet moments and friendly competition.

Family was always at the heart of Paul’s life. He is survived by his children, Jessica Koller and her husband Nicholas, Tyler Payne, and Courtney Payne and her husband Joseph Goldammer. He also leaves behind his granddaughter, Emily Breitrick, and his great-grandson, Remington Breitrick, who brought him great pride and happiness. He is further survived by his brothers, Thomas and his wife Kathy, and Russel and his wife Karen, as well as his sister Michelle and her husband Richard Guderian; nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends. Paul valued the bonds of family deeply, and those relationships remained important to him throughout his life.

Those who knew Paul will remember his warmth, his creativity, and the generosity he showed so freely. He had a kind heart, a gentle manner, and a way of making others feel welcome and appreciated. He was the kind of person who gave of himself without hesitation and who left a lasting impression through both his words and his actions. His life was a testament to love, commitment, and the quiet strength that comes from caring deeply for others.

Paul’s family and friends will forever cherish the memories they shared with him and the many ways he enriched their lives. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy will live on in the family he loved, the work he built, the art he created, and the many lives he touched along the way.

Paul’s Final Packers party will be celebrating his life and love of the sports. Please join us on Sunday, September 13th, between 1 and 6 pm (Packers vs. Vikings kick off at 3:25 pm) at his home on Okaukee Lake (N53W34371 Road Q, Okauchee). As many know, parking is limited at the house, and additional parking will be available near the beginning of Road Q, with a shuttle to bring visitors to and from their vehicles. Game time catering will be provided.

We return to you, O earth, the things you have given us willingly and most graciously; with our hearts, hands and minds, in the best way we know how.

-Taj Mahal

Church & Chapel Funeral Service Serving the Family

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