Paul Joseph Eilers, 69, of Trenton, died March, 28, 2026, at Evercare of Breese. He was born Dec. 2, 1956, in Breese, a son of the late Ralph and Henrietta (nee Niemeyer) Eilers.

Paul married Kathleen Eleanor Eilers (nee Frierdich) on Oct. 20, 1979, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Breese; she survives in Trenton. 

Paul retired in 2021 from Hexacomb Corporation in Trenton – formerly known as Pactiv – where he served as a supervisor for 47 years. He was an active and devoted member of Hope Lutheran Church in Highland, where he previously served as chairman, trustee and elder. He was also a member of the Trenton Sportsman Club and the award-winning Big Belly Boys Barbeque Club.

Well known throughout the community, Paul brought joy to countless families through his role as Santa Claus for many years. He appeared at St. Clair Square, the Breese Santa Hut, Deien Chevrolet and for the City of Trenton in addition to making special visits to local homes.

Paul enjoyed attending monthly luncheons with fellow Pactiv retirees, visiting EB’s Place clubhouse, fishing, shooting clay birds and woodworking. In his younger years, he loved playing softball and spending time at Dutchmen’s in Breese. 

Above all, Paul treasured time with his family and took great pride in his three granddaughters, whom he loved dearly, especially cherishing the moments spent taking them on golf cart rides.

Paul was a loving and devoted husband to Kathleen for 46 years. Paul is also survived by their children Rachel (Cory) McDaniel of Salina, Kan., Katie (Brandon) Renschen of Breese and Emily Eilers of Trenton; grandchildren Paige and Natalie McDaniel and Elle Renschen; siblings Linda (Kevin) Rademacher of O’Fallon, Joyce Woltering of Beaver Prairie, Barb (Jim) Foote of Belleville, Dale (Vicky) Eilers of Beckemeyer and Karen (Scott) Bennett of Breese; sister-in-law, Mary (David) Mueller of Dublin, N.H.; and nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; sister Diane Eilers; brother-in-law Kenny Woltering; and parents-in-law Royce and Georgia (nee Buettner) Frierdich.

Visitation is 4-8 p.m. April 1 at Moss Funeral Home in Trenton and 10-11 a.m. April 2 at Hope Lutheran Church in Highland.

A funeral service will follow visitation at the church with Pastor Scott Busacker officiating. 

Interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, plants, and other gifts, memorials may be made to: Hope Lutheran Church; or Clinton County Humane Society. Memorials  will be received at the visitation or by mail to Moss Funeral Home, Trenton, who is serving the family.