H. Paul Fruland

Age 89, of Morris, IL, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

Paul was the beloved husband of his high school sweetheart, the late Charlene Fruland and a devoted father to DiAnn Hillesland, Mike Fruland, Heidi Wozniak (Bob), and Eric Fruland (Ann). He was a proud “Bumpa” to ten grandchildren: Zachary (Claire) Hillesland, Haley (Noah) Hirshman, Michael (Ali) Fruland, Joshua Fruland, Lauren (John) Rerucha, Wyatt Fruland, Meg (Jackson) Mihevc, Matt Wozniak, Lila Fruland, and Will Fruland and six great-grandchildren: Ava Kulka, Owen and Hadley Fruland, Jax and Josie Rerucha, and Lottie Hillesland. He was also a cherished uncle to Ed (Jan) Harseim, Carlene (Dave) Reid, Tom Harseim, Amy (Patrick) Snow and Brian Fruland.

Born on March 19, 1935, in Morris, to Earl and Charlotte Fruland. He was the older brother to Doug and Dick (Kathy). Paul graduated from Morris Community High School in 1953, attended Northern Illinois University and later pursued studies at Worsham College of Mortuary Science. He joined his father as the funeral director at Fruland Funeral Home and served the community with compassion until his retirement. He also served on the Board of Directors at the Morris Savings and Loan for many years.

A man of unwavering faith, Paul was a devout member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where he served as an usher for over 70 years, rarely missing a Sunday. He was known for his deep love of family and always put them before himself. Paul's life was a true reflection of his moral compass, guiding those around him with kindness, humility, and love.

Paul's heart was full of pride for his Norwegian heritage, and this was only second to his hometown, which he referred to as the “garden spot of the world.” His daily routine included a 38-minute walk and daily coffee with his lifelong friends, a tradition that spanned more than 50 years. There, he joked that discussions revolved around sports when they were young, politics in midlife, and health in their later years. He was an avid Redskin fan, known for walking the sidelines. He enjoyed classic movies, especially his favorite, It’s a Wonderful Life—a film that reflected his small town values. To his family, Paul was George Bailey, always ready to lend a hand, offer a word of wisdom, and show up for every occasion, no matter how big or small.

Preceded in death by his parents, wife Charlene, brother Doug, and son-in-law Dan Hillesland, Paul leaves behind a legacy that will live on through his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Simply put, Paul was the best son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, friend and neighbor. 

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 202 W. Jefferson Street in Morris on January 28, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until time of funeral service, 12:00 p.m. Pastor Patrick Lohse will officiate and interment will follow in Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Morris.

A special thank you goes out to Carlene and Dave Reid and Ed Harseim for their above and beyond generosity and support over the last several years. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Operation St. Nick or Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.FrulandFuneralHome.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Paul’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Fruland Funeral Home, 121 W. Jefferson Street in Morris. (815-942-0700)