Paul Sebald

Paul Lester Sebald, devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, peacefully passed away on May 25, 2024, at his home in Byron Center, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 1, 1958, in Bay City, Michigan, Paul was the son of Lester and Mary Jane Sebald.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion as colorful as his neon wardrobe. He shared 44 wonderful years of marriage with his cherished wife, LeAndra Sebald. Together they raised two children, Cale Sebald and Pari Laick (Brian), who brought immense joy to their lives. Paul was also blessed with the delight of being a poppa to his granddaughter, Olive, whom he adored and whom she likewise was obsessed. Excluding possums, Paul had a deep love of animals and is survived by his dogs, Beatrice the Airedale Terrier and Olga the English Mastiff.

He was a loving brother to Mark (Barb) and Jack Sebald (Lorna), the latter of which preceded him in death. After the passing of his parents, Paul was lucky enough to have his two brothers, Mark especially, help to raise him. Paul had tremendous family beyond blood ties, especially his brother and sister-in-law, best friends, drinking and DIY partners, Galen and Suzie Kaliszewski. Their love, support, and presence throughout Paul’s cancer diagnosis cannot be understated.

Paul's journey led him through Spring Arbor College, where he graduated. He had a successful career in sales and retired as a Sales Manager at Genuine Parts Company, earning numerous awards for his outstanding sales achievements.

Paul’s passions were wide and varied, he ran the Old Kent River Bank Run several times, later moving on from running to cycling. He completed the Hilly 100 five times, 100 miles of cycling and snacking over the rolling hills of Indiana. He once said any day he was able to have a slice of pizza was a good day, his absolute favorite was B&C’s in Bay City. He also had a love for candy most consider disgusting: circus peanuts, toasted coconut marshmallows, and gum balls, to name a few. You could always count on there being a bowl of stale gumballs next to his Peloton, which he loved to munch while he cycled. It would be remiss not to mention his love for sports cars, particularly his Lemans Blue Corvette. One of his favorite pastimes was attending car shows with his brother Mark.

In honor of Paul's compassionate spirit and love for animals, donations can be made to the Little Traverse Bay Humane Society or the Kei Ju Farm and Rescue Sanctuary of Petoskey in lieu of flowers.

To know Paul was truly to love him; his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to cross his path. His kindness, mirth, and unwavering love leave an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of being a part of his life. May the pizza be plentiful, the colors be neon, and the laughter be endless. As Paul loved to exclaim, “Well, look at the time!”