Paul D. Rysenga

Surrounded by family, Paul passed away at the age of 81 on Friday afternoon, August 25, 2023. Paul was born October 2, 1941 in Comstock, Michigan. Paul was a graduate of Comstock High School and went on to Western Michigan University where he earned a Bachelors and Master’s Degree. Here he also met the love of his life and wife of 64 years, Judy. For 21 years Paul worked at the Upjohn Company where he was instrumental in developing a manufacturing plant in Puerto Rico. After winning the Upjohn Award and before retiring, Paul reached the title of Director of Regulatory Affairs and Compliance. After retiring from the pharmaceutical industry, Paul began working in the automotive industry where he served as the Vice President of Tower Automotive. Throughout his life, Paul enjoyed making old things new again. He had a passion for restoring antique furniture, vintage cars and wood boats. Even in his retirement Paul spent many hours volunteering for the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop polishing, and making new again all the donated silver. Paul also loved to fish and had many tales of his fishing escapades. Nothing fancy though, just a bobber and worms and he was off to the lake.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Helene; sisters, Susan and Margaret; brothers, Ken and Tom. He is survived by his wife, Judy (Huizenga); son, Jeff (Ann); daughter, Beth (Scott) Hunter; and his brother and sister, Charles and Elizabeth (Ken) Flickinger. Paul also leaves behind his grandchildren, Nicholas (Laura) Hunter, Charlie Rysenga, Ellen (Pedro) Acosta, Caroline and Christine Rysenga; and two great-grandchildren, Jane and Ben Hunter; brother and sister-in-law, Ted and Joan Huizenga.

Paul’s Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, September 10, 2023, at the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven with a visitation at 2:00pm, followed by service at 3:00pm.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Paul’s name to the Salvation Army or the charity of their choice. To leave an online condolence, please visit https://www.langelands.com