Paul L. Mathes, 84, of New Holstein died Sunday, October 24, 2010 at the Willowdale Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in New Holstein where he was a patient for 1 week. He was born February 12, 1926 in New Holstein to the late Walter and Nora Schwalbe Mathes. Paul graduated from New Holstein High School as his class Valedictorian in 1944. He served in the Army from July 7, 1944 until December 15, 1945. On December 8, 1951, he married Velma Webber at Zion Lutheran Church in New Holstein. Velma preceded him in death on January 31, 1995. When he returned home from the service, he took over his father's dairy farm and took great pride in his animals and beautiful farm. After many years of farming and owning a milk route, he choose to sell the animals and subdivide the land. He was owner of Paul Mathes Excavating for over 50 years. His later years he enjoyed watching his grandchildren grow and enjoying his land. Paul was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in New Holstein, the New Holstein American Legion Post 124, New Holstein Chamber of Commerce and was a retired member of the New Holstein Fire Department. Survivors include his three children, John (Darla) Mathes of New Holstein, Susan (Mark) Hauschel of Grafton and Tricia (Syl) Halbach of Kiel; 8 grandchildren, Melissa and Samantha Mathes, Kevin and Travis Schneider, Jordan and Alex Hauschel and Rachel and Courtney Halbach; his sisters-in-law, Annette Mathes of New Holstein and Vida (Dale) Mannes of Milwaukee and a brother-in-law, Al Webber of New Holstein. Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Velma and a brother, Raphael Mathes. Funeral Services will be held at 6:30 PM on Thursday, October 28, 2010, at Zion Lutheran Church 1702 Van Buren Street in New Holstein. Rev. John Schenck will officiate. Military Rites conducted by the New Holstein American Legion Post 124 will follow at the church immediately following the services. Burial will be in the New Holstein Cemetery. Family and friends may call at the church on Thursday from 3:00 PM until the time of services. A memorial fund will be established in his name. For additional information, please contact the Sippel Funeral Home in New Holstein (920) 898-4300 or visit www.sippelfuneralhome.net