Paul Bigelow

Paul Alfred Bigelow, a gentle giant, passed away on February 12, 2022, just 10 days shy of his 89th birthday. He was born on February 22, 1933 to Bertha Beaudoin and Earl Eugene Bigelow. Paul is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Gert Kraii and Judy Reinhardt; and brothers-in-law, Chester (Beatrice) Williams and Duane Harris. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Flora Bigelow; three children, Terry (Marlene) Bigelow, Paul Allen Bigelow, and Sandra (Michael) Gager; beloved grandchildren, Brittany (Noah) Siegel, Caitlyn (Seth) Thompson, and Zachary Bigelow; cherished great-grandchildren, Elsie, Levi, Miles, and Hadleigh Thompson, and Hunter and Logan Siegel; brother, Richard (Beverly) Bigelow; brother-in-law, Glen Kraii; sisters-in-law, Marie Harris and Joyce (Dave) Mann; and many special nieces and nephews.

Paul was a lifetime Stanton resident. He was a star athlete at Stanton High School and helped the basketball team make it to the state semifinals his senior year. Paul also played football and was recruited to play at Central Michigan University, but turned down the offer to enter the workforce. He worked at Federal Mogul for 43 years and proudly served his country for four years in the United States Coast Guard. After returning to Federal Mogul, he met his wife, Flora. They were married for 65 years and blessed with a beautiful family. They had 3 children: Terry, Al and Sandi, who he affectionately called “Smoke.” After retiring, he drove cars for Bookwalter Motors for many years as a side-job, enjoying the comradery with dealers across the state. Paul was a diehard sports fan, and his loyalties were with the University of Michigan. But, while he enjoyed watching his teams play, his true pride and joy were his grandchildren and for them his generosity knew no bounds. Paul will be remembered for his kindness, giving spirit, engaging personality and being a boisterous fan.

Paul’s life is being celebrated on Friday, February 18th, at the Simpson Family Funeral Home in Stanton (225 W. Cedar St.) with visitation being held from 12 Noon to 2 PM. A memorial service will begin at 2 PM.

For those wanting to make a memorial donation in Paul's memory the family suggests you direct them to the Central Montcalm Football Program. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home on Friday.