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Paul's obituary

On February 1st, Paul passed away peacefully, surrounded by his children after complications from a recent illness. He will be remembered by all who knew him as a nurturing provider and a caring, diligent clinician. He was also an adventurous chef, ardent aquarist, talented musician, avid art/treasure finder, enthusiastic joke collector, and excellent gift-giver. Paul deeply loved his family, and it brought him great joy to support their continued growth throughout his accomplished life.

Paul was born in Boise, Idaho, but soon moved to the Pacific Northwest. He grew up with fond memories of visiting the ocean with his brothers, combing the beaches for shells, and harvesting clams and crabs. As a child, he was very close to his grandmother, who instilled a passion for cooking—something he'd later pass on to his own kids.

Excelling in academics, particularly Latin, Paul pursued a Classics education at the University of Notre Dame. As a student, he discovered an affection for Psychology as well as Fighting Irish football. He ultimately made his way to Northwestern University in Chicago, where he obtained a PhD in the emerging science of Clinical Neuropsychology. While completing his training, he met and married his wife, Karen.

Paul returned to South Bend to act as a director at the Michiana Rehabilitation Institute, where he aided patients in their recovery from traumatic brain injuries. He was able to expand his vocation by setting up his own practice, serving on staff at Memorial Hospital and as an adjunct professor for Notre Dame and Andrews University.

Paul eventually welcomed four children into the world: Michael, Monica, Marcus, and Melissa. As they got older, this devoted father and loyal fan attended every football, basketball, and volleyball game, track meet, dance recital, and awards ceremony. Paul would help shuttle his kids to practices and tournaments across the country, always prepped and ready to deliver loud belly cheers and shrill whistles.

After watching his own children grow up, graduate college, pursue advanced degrees, and get married themselves, Paul had the pleasure of meeting 10 precious grandchildren. With nearly 40 years of practice under his belt, he recently retired, and was settling into his new role of "Papa Pauly". He found happiness in tracking down meaningful birthday presents, hearing about recent adventures over FaceTime, and giggling through milestone videos. His home was proudly decorated with pictures and drawings from his cherished family.

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Helping hands

In lieu of flowers

Please consider a donation to purchase a park bench in our Dad's name.
$3,500.00
of $3,500 goal
100 %

Recent contributions

$1,250.00
Uncle David
$100.00
Steven Rothke
$150.00
Friends from Elkhart Vocational Rehabilitation
See all contributionsRight arrow

Recent contributions

$1,250.00
Uncle David
$100.00
Steven Rothke
$150.00
Friends from Elkhart Vocational Rehabilitation
See all contributionsRight arrow

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Dr. Paul Macellari