Paul A. Zurn, 35, of North Aurora, IL, died Friday, April 7, 2017, at his home. In the midst of mourning, his family’s sustaining comfort is Paul’s faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul’s charming presence entered the world on January 30, 1982, in Galena, IL, as the first-born son of Michael P. and Karen (Sampson) Zurn. After homeschooling, he shone as a student, athlete, and quiet leader at Morrison High School, graduating in 2000. He served in the United States Army for two years, including a deployment to Kuwait. His uniform perfectly complemented his sharp sense of style, piercing blue eyes, and blinding smile. Following military service, he graduated from the University of Illinois in Urbana, where he found camaraderie on the U of I rugby team. He married Laurie Conavay, his travel compatriot and source of much joy, on September 13, 2014. Paul’s perceptive and conscientious approach to others served him well as an Illinois State Trooper. His unique dry wit, paired with impeccable timing, brought laughter to family and friends. He found peace and solace in the outdoors and enjoyed sharing stories of his camping expeditions out West.
Survivors include his loving parents, Michael and Karen Zurn of Morrison, IL; two adoring sisters, Beth Zurn of Fort Collins, CO, and Hannah Zurn of Raleigh, NC; his treasured maternal grandmother, Nancy Sutherland Sampson of Fort Myers, FL; many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, John W. Sampson, Sr., and paternal grandparents, Paul A. and Patricia Nolan Zurn.
VISITATION: 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday, April 21, 2017, at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home
FUNERAL SERVICE: 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 22, 2017, at Brethren in Christ Church in Morrison, IL
OFFICIATING: Pastor Craig Sipes, Brethren In Christ Church
Paul’s body will be laid to rest at Grove Hill Cemetery in Morrison, IL.
Memorials directed to Morrison Brethren in Christ Church will be used to support addiction recovery ministries.