McMann, Paul

Paul McMann, 87, a resident of Highland Ridge Care Center in Williamsburg, died Monday, June 27, 2011, following a brief illness. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 1, at Grace Lutheran Church in Blairstown, with the Rev. David Rempfer officiating. Interment will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Blairstown, with graveside military rites conducted by M.J. Kirby American Legion Post 170. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday and one hour before service time Friday also at the church.

Paul was born March 10, 1924, to Clint and Mary (McGivern) McMann at Marengo. He was united in marriage to Arlene Rathje on Feb. 4, 1948. Paul served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1950-1952. He farmed near Marengo and Luzerne before settling in Blairstown, where they farmed southwest of town for many years. Following his retirement from farming Paul and Arlene moved to town. He was very proud to drive a school bus for the Benton Community School District for many years. Paul was a longtime member of Grace Lutheran Church, where he participated in dart-ball and fellowship club. Paul served as a 4-H leader for many years and was proudly a State 4-H Family. Most of all Paul loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He especially enjoyed giving them rides on his John Deere lawn mower.

Paul is survived by his wife, Arlene, a resident of Rosehaven Care Center in Marengo; four children, Colette (William) McMosley of Salina, Kan., Rick (Deborah Parker) McMann of Iowa City, Jean Tatman of Golden, Colo., and Mark (Kay) McMann of Williamsburg; 12 grandchildren, Tammi (Mike) Farrelly, Todd Niebes, Lisa Olson, Jason (Erika) Rabe, Andy (Shannon) Rabe, Chris (Shea) McMann, Joel (Amy) McMann, Dena (Christian) Shonts, Nickolas (Christy) Dellamuth, Ty Tatman, Jodi (Brad) Buchan and Mike (Christie) McMann; 19 great-grandchildren; his brother, Francis McMann Sr. of Cedar Rapids; and his sister, Mary Possehl of Williamsburg.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his son, Terry Niebes; and five brothers, Ed, Bing, Joe, Cop and Jim.

A memorial fund has been established.

Phillips Funeral Home in Blairstown is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at