Paul Roger Taylor

Paul Roger Taylor, 81, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away on June 17, 2026 at Integrated Hospice Center in Libertyville, IL. He was born on November 29, 1944 in Chicago to Arthur and Margaret Taylor.

Paul Roger Taylor, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, teacher, mentor, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He lived a life marked by hard work, service, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

Born and raised in Chicago, Paul was one of twelve children in a close-knit family. Growing up alongside his eleven siblings helped shape the strong values, resilience, and sense of humor that would define him throughout his life.

Paul proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as a Petroleum Supply Specialist, attaining the rank of Sergeant. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. His military service was a source of pride and reflected his lifelong dedication to duty and responsibility.

Following his service, Paul built a distinguished career as a professional lather and later shared his knowledge and expertise as an instructor with the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters Apprentice and Training Program. He took great pride in teaching the next generation of skilled tradespeople and helping others succeed.

Paul married his sweetie pie, Sandy, and together they built a beautiful life centered on family. They raised their two children and made their home in Wildwood before settling in Grayslake, where they created countless memories with family and friends.

Of all his accomplishments, nothing brought Paul more joy than being "Grandpa." He deeply loved his four grandchildren and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on. Whether attending concerts, school plays, floor hockey games, or lacrosse matches, Paul could always be found in the audience, proudly supporting and celebrating their achievements.

Paul enjoyed many simple pleasures in life. He loved golfing, playing bocce ball, and passionately following Chicago sports teams. He never met a dessert he didn't like and was always ready for a sweet treat.

For 46 years, Paul dedicated himself to sobriety and to helping fellow members of Alcoholics Anonymous. His commitment to recovery touched countless lives, offering encouragement, guidance, and hope to those walking a similar path. His service to others was one of the most meaningful legacies he leaves behind.

Paul was known for his gift of storytelling. He often took the scenic route to get to the point, but those who listened knew the journey was always worth it. He had a unique way of speaking that was all his own, a quick wit, and a playful sense of humor that could brighten any room. His laughter was contagious, his stories unforgettable, and his presence larger than life.

In Paul’s language : was its los mit dem ding ding here

Paul is survived by his wife, Sandy Taylor, of 57 years whom he married on November 23, 1968 in Chicago; his children, Sean (Sheila) Taylor of Lake Villa, and Tammy (Eric) Tindall of Bristol, WI; his grandchildren, Payton Taylor of Chicago, Vaughn Hoeft of Bristol, WI, Christian Taylor of Lake Villa, and Hannah Hoeft of Bristol, WI; his siblings, Mary (Tom) McClaughry of Chicago, Roger (Gil) Taylor of Las Vegas, NV, and Joe (Linda) Taylor of Los Angeles, CA; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Arthur Taylor, Terry Taylor, Quinn Taylor, Tim Taylor, Barbara Taylor, Sheila Taylor, Mike Taylor, and Penny Kundert; and his parents.

A Visitation and Funeral Service will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Friday, July 3, 2026 from 4pm until 6pm with a funeral service beginning at 6pm. Interment will be held privately. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.