Reverend William Paul Hawf, 89, of Mount Carmel, peacefully passed away Feb. 25, 2016, at Oakview Heights Continuous Care surrounded by his loving family.

Paul was born Aug. 21, 1926, Allendale, Illinois, the son of Elmo Ray and Vernice (Shephard) Hawf.

On May 26, 1946, he married Gretchen Hipsher in Henderson, Kentucky. She passed away in 2012.

He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Paul returned home and began working for the New York Central Railroad. Just as he received his engineer certificate, he was called to the ministry attending seminary school in Vincennes, Indiana, where he became an Ordained Minister. He then served as a reverend for the next 50 years for the United Methodist churches, but continued ministering for the rest of his life. Paul loved music and fishing, had a knack for making people laugh but more than anything loved serving his Lord. He was also a member of the American Legion.

Left to cherish his memories is his children Paula Webb, Brad Hawf, Alison and husband Curtis Dudley and Jama Hawf of Mount Carmel; siblings, Gene and wife Norma Hawf, Freda Raibley, Sally Hawf and Ron and wife Jan Hawf; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents; wife of 65 years, Gretchen; son, Gary Lee Hawf; grandson, Matthew Hawf; siblings, Pete and Albert Hawf.

Visitation will be Feb. 28, 2016, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 512 N Mulberry Street, Mount Carmel, Illinois.

Funeral services will be Feb. 29, 2016, at 2 p.m. also at Trinity United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at Adams Corner Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Wabash Area Vocational Enterprises, Inc., 1420 W. 3rd Street, Mount Carmel, Illinois 62863. Envelopes will be available at the church.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com.

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Paul’s family.