Kerwin "Kap" Paesens

September 15, 1950 - January 22, 2021

Kerwin Alan “Kap” Paesens, age 70, of Farwell, was summoned to Heaven to help celebrate his Dad’s heavenly birthday on Friday, January 22, 2021. He was the first born of Kerwin L. and Maxine J. (Waalkes) Paesens on Sept. 15, 1950, who proceeded him to eternal life. Kap was loyally devoted to his family and they meant the world to him. He is survived by his loving siblings and their spouses: Gary and Sandy Paesens of Bellevue, Susan and Daniel Lyon of Mesick, Dean and Lana Paesens of Mt. Pleasant, Patti and Paul Williams of Mesick, his beloved nieces and nephews: Tyler and Erika Paesens, Adam and Keri Lyon, Amanda and Patrick Felts, Nick and Amber Paesens, Kimberly Paesens, Sarah and Scott Thaler and Kirk and Nicole Williams, as well as, cherished great-neices and nephews who he referred to as his "great grandchildren": Calvin, Abbie, Kendall, Kaleb, Kameryn, Cooper, Parker, Zoey, Lucas, Camden, Cole, Quinn, Lindy, Kenzie and Bryce. He is also survived by his greatly loved Uncle Jerry and Aunt Susie Waalkes, many treasured cousins and many, many dear friends who were considered family. Kap lived a life of extravagant generosity and faithful service. If you had to sum up his life in one word it would be giving. He gave of his time, talents and resources generously. If he saw a need, he gave or served. Furthermore, there wasn't a stray dog he didn't try to rescue. Kap graduated from Farwell High School in 1968. He was among the first graduating class at Mid Michigan Community College, where he played on their first basketball team. After receiving his Associate's Degree, he went on to get his Bachelor's Degree at Central Michigan University. Throughout Kap's life he held many jobs from gas station attendant, bookkeeper, athletic director, coach and lawn care maintenance, to name a few. But his most treasured job was his years as athletic trainer at Farwell and Clare Schools. He was a gifted trainer who touched the lives of countless student athletes with his tape, treats and words of encouragement. He was proud to be inducted into the Clare Athletic Hall of Fame. His job at Meals on Wheels was another testament to his gift of service. Kap was a member of the Farwell United Methodist Church where he had served in many positions of the church board. But he was happiest doing the behind scenes jobs of shoveling and mowing. Anyone attending the past Easter pageants will remember him as the Roman soldier at Jesus' tomb, showing off his nice legs. In his later years Kap joined the Midstatesmen Barbershop Chapter of the Gratiot County Harmony Society, where he enjoyed the musical fellowship. He was honored as Barbershopper of the year in 2020. Kap earned many honors and accolades for his service, but was most content serving quietly in the background. He left a lasting legacy on those fortunate enough to know him. The family would like to offer their deepest appreciation to the wonderful staff at Maplewood Assisted Living, Kap's angel nurses Chris and Jan, Mid Michigan Hospice of Mt. Pleasant and his wonderful hospice nurse, Holly. We are grateful to everyone who visited Kap or sent him cards and prayers of encouragement. He was blessed by your love. A funeral service with his family will be held on Wednesday at the Farwell Chapel of Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home with his friend and fellow member of their Barbershop Group, Rev. Carl Cecil officiating. Friends are invited to meet with Kap’s family at the funeral home on Tuesday, Jan. 26, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM. Social distancing and mask wear will be required. Memorial gifts may be made to the Farwell United Methodist Church, Farwell Schools Athletic Department, or Mid Michigan Hospice. If you are unable to attend, an online condolence register is available at www.stephenson-wyman.com