Paul James Kerber, born January 1, 1931, at home on the family farm in Anchor, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 10:05 am Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at the Village of Mercy Creek, Normal. He was the beloved son of Grover W. and Gertrude (Meyer) Kerber.

Paul received his elementary education at Mt. Zion School, a one-room schoolhouse, before graduating from Cropsey High School in 1949. He was actively involved in 4-H, serving as the past president of the McLean County 4-H Federation and as a junior leader of the Anchor Blue Ribbon Club, where he proudly raised purebred Spotted Poland China hogs. He continued to raise hogs following high school.

In 1952, Paul was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War. He spent a year stationed in Korea with the 25th Infantry Division, 27th Regiment "Wolfhounds," and later served with the Korean Military Advisory Group, where he was promoted to Sergeant. Paul concluded his military service at Fort Carson, Colorado, with the Mule Pack Division of the Cold Weather and Mountain Troops. He remained a dedicated member of the American Legion for over 70 years.

After returning from the war, Paul devoted 40 years to farming in central Illinois. On June 29, 1957, he married the love of his life, Helen Jean Eppel, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Bloomington, Illinois. Together, they raised two sons, Michael and Timothy.

Paul's commitment to his community was evident through his service on the Octavia Vocational Agriculture Council, the Octavia School Board, and the McLean County Extension Council. He was also deeply involved in St. Joseph's Catholic Church, where he served as an altar boy, lector, Eucharistic Minister, and served as Trustee for 18 years.

In retirement, Paul and Jean enjoyed their shared passion for antique collecting, frequently attending sales and shows together. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Jean; their son, Michael; and grandson, Ryan. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Grover Jr., Loretta, Robert, and Leo.

Paul is survived by his son, Timothy; daughter-in-law, Gail; grandsons, Jared and Ethan; and great-granddaughters, Aubrey and Amnesty, along with a host of friends and extended family who will remember him for his dedication, kindness, and the countless lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am Friday, June 12, 2026 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church of Merna, Bloomington, to honor Paul’s life and contributions to his family and community. Burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Merna with full military rites accorded by the Davis-Kerber American Legion Post 653. Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Colfax is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Patrick's Catholic Church or the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight.