Paul Swidorski, age 62 of Manistee, passed away unexpectedly on Friday morning, Feb. 19, 2021.

He was born on Sept. 8, 1958, in Manistee, son of the late Robert "Bob" and Mary Ann "Bonnie" Swidorski.

Paul was a graduate of Manistee High School, the Class of 1976. He married the love of his life, Julie Russell, on March 19, 1982, and they went on to have three children.

For nearly the past four decades, Paul worked tirelessly to build his company, Swidorski Bros. Excavating LLC, while building strong relationships with his clients and the community.

Because of his perseverance, sacrifice and generosity, Swidorski Bros. Excavating LLC, which began as nothing more than one used backhoe and a dream, has grown exponentially to become a cornerstone business in the Manistee County area. Paul was incredibly proud of the fact that all three of his children followed in his footsteps and helped make the business what it is today and will continue to be.

Paul appreciated the beauty of simple things, like the tranquility of nature. He loved hunting, fishing and took pride in the land he owned. He found peace in the outdoors.

A jack of all trades, Paul was quick to help those in need, no matter the size of the task. And he was especially giving to family.

At his core, Paul was a selfless family man. Providing for and protecting those closest to him was his purpose in life.

He saw all three of his children bring children of their own into the world, and he soaked in every second of being a grandfather. One of his favorite ways to spend an afternoon was outside with his grandsons - casting lines into the pond, picking apples off the tree, or looking for buried "treasure" in the yard.

Paul is survived by Julie, his wife of nearly 39 years; his son Matt and daughter-in-law Lindsey Swidorski; his daughter Megan and son-in-law Dylan Savela; his son Mason and daughter-in-law Briann Swidorski; his four grandchildren, Talon and Bowen Swidorski, River Savela and Kason Swidorski; and his father- and mother-

in-law Ted and Judy Ross. He is also survived by four siblings, James (Sheryl) Swidorski, Jon Swidorski, Jill (Rob) Nowak and Patrick (Chris) Swidorski, all of Manistee, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents.

There will be a visitation for Paul at St. Joseph Church of Manistee on Tuesday, March 2, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. with Reverend Basil Lek celebrant.

Those wishing to remember Paul are asked to consider a donation in his name to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, 3860 N. Long Lake Road, Ste. D, Traverse City, MI, 49684.

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