Paul H. Leu

Paul Harrison Leu, 89, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service, deep family devotion, and a life full of rich stories.

Paul was born on October 1, 1937, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, to Elmore and Leona Leu. He went on to spend over 50 years working for the State of Wisconsin highway department. Because of this, Paul possessed a razor-sharp sense of direction. Sadly, this trait completely skipped a generation. He lovingly joked that his daughter, Jodie, could manage to get lost while making right-hand turns going around the block. Paul contributed his talents in many roles, including surveyor, draftsman, engineering technician, photographer, and facilities manager. His commitment to his local community extended beyond his career; Paul also dedicated over 20 years to the Greenfield Civil Service Commission and later served on the Fountainview Condominium Board.

Paul was famously well-liked, even if he was known to sometimes have a little bit gruff look on his face at the starting gate. He loved nothing more than a friendly, genuine conversation. He met his beloved wife, Joan, on a blind date as part of a couple accompanying friends. Despite Paul showing up late to that very first date, Joan graciously gave him a second chance. It was a chance he cherished for the rest of his life, later lovingly and selflessly caring for Joan through a long illness.

An accomplished sportsman, Paul was a championship trapshooter. He often dragged Jodie, as a child, along to the range. While she never quite took up the sport herself, Paul’s talent apparently transferred through osmosis, as she later won a "Best Shot" contest of her own. Paul was also a proud, official stock owner of the Green Bay Packers—a badge of honor his Chicago Bears-loving son-in-law gifted him. When he wasn't cheering for the Packers or the Milwaukee Brewers, Paul enjoyed traveling. Later in life, he enjoyed trips to Europe and visited family in Washington, D.C., Green Bay, Atlanta, and Massachusetts. To his daughter's friends, he was affectionately and universally known as "Papa Leu." Those who knew Paul best will fondly remember his sweet tooth and his absolute love for home-baked goods, especially the treats his cherished Granny made for him early in life. Paul’s perfect Friday night consisted of a classic Wisconsin fish fry and a brandy old-fashioned sweet with olives.

Paul was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan, his sister, Janet, and nieces and nephews.

He is survived by and will be deeply missed by his loving daughter, Jodie (Greg); his sister, Pat (Lou); nieces; nephews, and other family and friends, including Barbara Toryfter. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the community he spent his life serving.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Max A. Sass & Sons Funeral Home, Westwood Chapel, W173S7629 Westwood Drive, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with a service to follow at 6:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arthritis Foundation.