Paul Schaer, 97, of Metamora, IL passed away at 6:32 pm on Sunday, January 15, 2017 at Snyder Village in Metamora. He was born on December 17, 1919 in Peoria, IL to Albert and Rosa (Burkholder) Schaer. He married Thelma M. Patterson on June 7, 1947 in Spring Bay, IL. She survives. Also surviving are his daughters Patricia (Roy) Alexander of Germantown Hills, Ruth Schupp of Metamora, and Connie (Dan) Miller of Germantown Hills; grandchildren Krista (Matt)Westerman, Jeff Alexander, Brad (Opal) Wernsman, Jessica (Tim) Schofield, Steve (Jenny) Wernsman, Cody (Emily) Wernsman, Amy (Bob) Pearl, Robyn (Jessie) Miller, and Becky (Cory) McGrath; twenty-three great-grandchildren; and sister Clara (Jack) Kleinschmidt of Canton, IL. He was preceded in death by grandson Kevin Alexander, son-in-law Randy Schupp, four sisters, and four brothers. Paul was a U.S. Army Veteran serving in India as a medic during World War II. He was a farmer and then worked as a heavy equipment operator at WABCO for 27 years. He was a member of East Peoria Community Church of God where he was one of the instrumental Founders of the church. As a humble servant to his Lord God and Jesus Messiah, the Son of God, Paul spent his entire adult life passionately loving and giving of his time and energy to his family and church family. Many lives were forever molded by his generosity, humility, love, and humor. He loved to work outside and enjoyed gardening, bowling, and playing rummy. He could fix everything. He was a gentle and godly man who loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at Mason Funeral Home Germantown Hills Chapel in Germantown Hills with Curt Rowden officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until service time on Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Spring Bay Cemetery in Spring Bay. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Snyder Village Residents in Need Fund. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.