Paul Orin Byro, 91, of Kaleva, passed away peacefully on Christmas morning with loved ones at his side.

Born in Eagle Grove Township, Iowa on August 16, 1927, Paul was the son of Orin T. and Gladys R (Christeson) Byro. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Betty Marie (Welch) Byro on November 9, 1963. The Byros moved to the area in July 1976.

While growing up Paul helped out on the family farm and at the age of 18 he enlisted in the US Navy during World War II. After returning home his professional life included being a foundry foreman in Muskegon, a restaurant owner in Humboldt, IA, running Lakeview Car Wash and Uhaul in Manistee, and, until May 2018, driving a shuttle at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course.

Everywhere Paul went, he made friends who became family. He always had a smile on his face, which was contagious to everyone he encountered. Paul was an amazing father and his most cherished time was spent with family.

Paul was guided in life by his faith and felt he was placed on this earth to preach Jesus' message. He was a proud member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Manistee, where he was a former Elder, member of the Church council, and present member of the choir. Paul very much looked forward to weekly choir practices and performing during Sunday services.

Paul is survived by children Christine (Jimmy) Waites of Manchester, CT, Jane (Brad) Scaff of Austin, TX, Duane (Hope) Keith of Holland,

David (Crissalinda) Byro of Magnolia, NJ, and Paul Jr. (Alexa) Byro of Bear Lake. He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth (Leilani) of Broomfield, CO, sister, Miriam Rognes of Garner, IA, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his sisters Dorcas Dorrow and Evelyn Byro, parents, and his wife Betty of 52 years.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 29, 2018 at 2:30 pm at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Manistee with Pastor Jim Friesner Officiating. Burial will follow in the Old School House Cemetery in Brown Township where members of the Manistee County United Veterans Ritual Squad will present military honors. The family will receive friends at the church Saturday afternoon from 1:30 pm until time of service.

In addition to the amazing care provided by his children, the support of hospice services was vital in the last few months of Paul's life. The family asks that those wanting to remember him consider a gift in his honor to Munson or Spectrum Hospice.

The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.