Paul's life began June 21, 1937 in Watervliet, where he grew up and graduated High School.  Paul worked for Metropolitan Life Insurance Company for 35 years and most recently in his retirement he enjoyed being the greeter at Paw Paw Walmart.  Paul proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean conflict.  Paul will be remembered for being an avid Notre Dame fan, enjoying yard work, being on the lake and his animals.

Paul's greatest joy came in spending time with his loving family which includes: his wife Susan (Wisniewski) Kolenko; three children Paul Jr. "Bud" (Kathleen) Kolenko, Sandra (Kip) Landry, and Marc Kolenko; two step-children Barbara (Edward) Kiewel and William Martin; 19 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; a daughter-in-law Paddie Kolenko; two sisters-in-law Joyce Kolenko and Teresa Kolenko; and many nieces and nephews.

Paul died Friday, February 24, 2017 at his home in Paw Paw.  He is preceded in death by a son Michael John Kolenko, his parents John and Mary (Bernard) Kolenko, and four siblings Mary, John, Joe, and Rose Marie.  Friends may visit with Paul's family Tuesday, February 28, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, March 2, at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Watervliet with burial following in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Watervliet.  You are invited to leave a message for Paul's family at hutchinsfuneral.com