Paul A. Clouse, 86, of New Riegel, died Tuesday evening, August 5, 2008 at his residence.

On September 9, 1921 in Seneca Township, he was born to Stephen and Rosa (Reinhart) Clouse. He married Beatrice "Bea" A. Cramer on November 28, 1953 in St. Bernard Catholic Church in New Washington.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, 3 sons, Dennis (Debra) Clouse of Tiffin; Al (Dawn) Clouse of New Riegel; Ardie (Sharon) Clouse of Fostoria; 5 daughters, Diane (Robert) Walter of Toledo; Pam (Dan) Kin of Tiffin; Yvonne "Bonnie" Burns of New Riegel; Barbara Clouse of Fostoria; Lorraine Clouse of New Riegel; 19 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Mr. Clouse was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, George, Carl, and John Clouse and a sister, Berneda Schalk.

Paul was a life member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Frenchtown, 35 year member of the church choir and choir director for over 25 years. He was a member and past president of the Holy Name Society, a member of the church council, Lector, and Eucharistic Minister. He graduated from New Riegel High School in 1939 where he enjoyed playing basketball and baseball. Over the years he was an avid supporter of New Riegel sporting events, especially his grandchildren's activities. He also enjoyed watching the Cleveland Indians.

Paul honorably served in the US Navy during WWII, and was in the Great Lakes Regimental Band and Naval Choir.

Paul was a life long farmer as well as having worked at GE, Excello Wire, National Machinery, and as a bus driver for New Riegel Schools.

Paul led an active life as a member of The Catholic Order of Foresters (Catholic Knights of Ohio) for over 72 years, Knights of Columbus for 27 years, and New Riegel Moose Lodge # 872 for over 65 years, where he enjoyed playing euchre. He was a member of the New Riegel American Legion for over 63 years, where he was a past Commander, and a member of the 40 et 8. He was also a clerk for Seneca Township for 20 years, a county Committeeman for 10 years for the FSA (Farm Service Agency), and a member of the Seneca County Farm Bureau.

Paul and his wife, Bea enjoyed playing cards in their card club for over 52 years. Paul played the Trombone in the New Riegel Town Band, Frank Creeger Band, Polka Dots, and "The Gang Band" for over 29 years, where he was an original member.

A Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, August 9, 2008 at 10:30 AM at All Saints Parish, Frenchtown with his great nephew, Rev. David Schalk and Rev. Randy Giesige concelebrating. A Rosary will be prayed 15 minutes prior to mass. Burial will follow in St. Nicholas Cemetery in Frenchtown with Military graveside services conducted by the New Riegel American Legion.

Friends may visit with the family on Friday, August 8, 2008 from 2-8 PM at Hoffmann-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home, 236 S. Washington St., Tiffin, OH, 44883, 419-447-2424. The New Riegel American Legion will honor Paul on Friday at 8:00 PM. The 40 et 8 will have a prayer service at 8:15 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to All Saints Parish, FACT, Community Hospice Care or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Online condolences for the family can be sent to hgmackfuneralhome.com.