Paul M. Leschig, age 92, a Manitowoc resident, died peacefully on Monday, February 20, 2012 at Walnut Grove with family by his side.

Paul was born on July 26, 1919 in Wunstorf, Germany to the late Paul O. and Sophie Grone Leschig. In 1923, the family was sponsored by a Newtonburg family and worked off their sponsorship making cheese. Speaking only German at the time, Paul learned English in school and taught his parents at home. In 1927, the family bought a cheese co-op in Manitowoc where Paul worked until his graduation from Washington High School in Two Rivers. During the cold winter months, he often skated to school on the river. During this time, he became an Eagle Scout and mastered the violin. In 1937, Paul enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was stationed on the USS Chaumont "Z" Division in Shanghai, China as a radio operator. After returning to the U.S., he worked for the Federal Aviation Administration. On April 23, 1956, Paul married Phyllis Zeller in Wabesha, MN. In 1972, Paul retired in Alaska as an Air Traffic Control Tower Chief and moved to Manitowoc shortly after. He enjoyed spending his time swimming, reading, being a radio ham operator, and "tinkering" in his workshop. Paul was a member of The Yacht Club, Organ Club, and St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Manitowoc.

Survivors include his loving and devoted wife of 55 years: Phyllis; two daughters: Colleen (Charles Gouert) Nesbitt, Manitowoc, and Barbara (Woody) Kitts, Texas; son: Ronald (Bonnie) Leschig, Milwaukee; eight grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; 3 great great grandchildren; sister: Rose Marie Wigen, Manitowoc; also nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Paul was preceded in death by his parents: Paul and Sophie Leschig; son: Paul "Butch" Jr.; daughter: Marlene Leschig; and brother: Walter.

The family will greet relatives and friends at St. Francis of Assisi on Grand on Saturday, February 25, 2012 from 10 am until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am. The Rev. Richard Klingeisen will officiate with military rites accorded by V.F.W. Otto Oas Post 659 to take place outside of church immediately following the service. Entombment of Paul's cremated remains will take place at Calvary Mausoleum at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home & Crematory, N. 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Walnut Grove for their loving care and patience, as well as Manitowoc County Community Hospice and Home Care for the special care and compassion shown to Paul and his family during his final days. Your kindness will always be remembered.

In lieu of flowers, any memorials would be appreciated in Paul's name to the Manitowoc Humane Society.