Paul Joseph Eilers, age 69, of Trenton, passed away Saturday, March, 28, 2026, at Evercare of Breese. He was born December 2, 1956, in Breese, a son of the late Ralph and Henrietta (nee Niemeyer) Eilers.
Paul married Kathleen Eleanor Eilers (nee Frierdich) on October 20, 1979, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Breese, and she survives in Trenton. Paul was a loving and devoted husband to Kathleen for 46 years. Paul is also survived by their children, Rachel (Cory) McDaniel of Salina, KS, Katie (Brandon) Renschen of Breese, and Emily Eilers of Trenton; grandchildren, Paige and Natalie McDaniel and Elle Renschen; siblings, Linda (Kevin) Rademacher of O’Fallon, Joyce Woltering of Beaver Prairie, Barb (Jim) Foote of Belleville, Dale (Vicky) Eilers of Beckemeyer, and Karen (Scott) Bennett of Breese; sister-in-law, Mary (David) Mueller of Dublin, NH; and nieces and nephews.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Diane Eilers; brother-in-law, Kenny Woltering; and parents-in-law, Royce and Georgia (nee Buettner) Frierdich.
Paul retired in 2021 from Hexacomb Corporation in Trenton, formerly known as Pactiv, where he served as a supervisor for 47 years. He was an active and devoted member of Hope Lutheran Church in Highland, where he previously served as chairman, trustee, and elder. He was also a member of the Trenton Sportsman Club and the award-winning Big Belly Boys Barbeque Club.
Well known throughout the community, Paul brought joy to countless families through his role as Santa Claus for many years. He appeared at St. Clair Square, the Breese Santa Hut, Deien Chevrolet, and for the City of Trenton, as well as making special visits to local homes.
Paul enjoyed attending monthly luncheons with fellow Pactiv retirees, visiting EB’s Place clubhouse, fishing, shooting clay birds, and woodworking. In his younger years, he loved playing softball and spending time at Dutchmen’s in Breese. Above all, Paul treasured time with his family and took great pride in his three granddaughters, whom he loved dearly, especially cherishing the moments spent taking them on golf cart rides.
Funeral Service will be Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church in Highland with Pastor Scott Busacker officiating. Interment will take place at a later date.
Visitation will be Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Moss Funeral Home in Trenton and again Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church in Highland.
In lieu of flowers, plants, and other gifts, memorials may be made to Hope Lutheran Church or Clinton County Humane Society and will be received at the visitation or by mail at Moss Funeral Home, 105 S. Main St. Trenton, IL 62293, who is serving the family.
