Paul H. Cataldo, age 74, of Evart passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. He was born August 10, 1950, on a Thursday, in Big Rapids, Michigan, to Michael and Thelma Almeda (Troyer) Cataldo. Paul felt a deep sense of pride and belonging to his culture as a first-generation Italian American. He embraced those values early in life and they were reflected in his character, work ethic, and unwavering loyalty to his family. Paul grew up north of Evart and was born with a passion for cars. He had a natural talent for mechanics, and began doing bodywork at the age of 14.

Paul could remember every part replaced, upgraded or modified, and many details regarding the specifications. In the 1970’s, Paul left Evart for South Carolina, where he worked as an Assessor while traveling the country. From there he moved to Flint, and took up working construction with his brothers, Michael and Francisco. It was then Paul realized he had too much charm and charisma to be working on a construction site and went into business for himself. Because cars were his passion, in 1980, Paul opened a used car lot and service center in Flint, Michigan, which he operated until 1984. In 1985, he moved back home to Evart, once again partnering with his brother, Francisco to open the Evart Car Care Center and eventually settled into a solo venture, owning the Sunoco Gas Station and Service Center on 80th Avenue and M115, from 1990 to 1997.

According to Paul’s children, Thomas and Jessica, Paul was a great dad, but was truly made to be a grandpa. Being called “Papa” was one of his biggest joys. He loved his family and enjoyed anything that brought them together, including trout camp, playing cards, making pizza at the family restaurant, watching westerns, and playing chess with the grand-kids, all of whom he cherished dearly. He was also a wonderful uncle to his nieces and nephews. He taught them how to play cards and never let them win. Each of them treasured their time with “Uncle Paul”.

Anyone who spent time around Paul knew that simply being in his presence could brighten your day, he was genuinely happy, always wearing a smile. Even in tough times, he found a way to stay positive. Paul was a collector of many things including cars, he never had enough cars and was continually shopping for more. He appreciated functionality and was always keen to use the correct terminology for things. He could be stubborn at times, but he loved his family and his country. Paul was a true patriot and supporter of our country, attending Trump rallies with his son and nephews.

Paul will be deeply missed by those who survive him: son, Thomas (Erica) Cataldo of Coleman; daughter, Jessica (Justin) Cornell of Evart; six beloved grandchildren, Lucas Cataldo, Dalylah and Timothy Pylman, Rosalie, Remington and Madeline Cornell; two sisters, Concetta Thompson of Florida, and Carmela Cataldo of Evart; sister-in-law, Angela Cataldo of Evart; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends near and far.

Preceding him in death were: four brothers, Tony Gallagher, Marvin Cataldo, Peter Cataldo, and Francisco Cataldo, and his parents, Michael and Thelma Cataldo.

Funeral services will take place 11AM, Wednesday, January 22nd at Corey Funeral Home, Evart, MI with visitation one hour prior. A luncheon will follow at the Evart Moose, where he was a member the last four years. Help commemorate a life well lived by joining family and friends, at Corey’s, for visitation Tuesday, January 21st, from 6PM to 8PM. Those so inclined are encouraged to leave condolences online at www.coreyfuneralhome.com. Interment will take place in the spring at Cherry Valley Cemetery, Hartwick Twp., Osceola County, MI, where he will be laid to rest next to his parents and brother, Francisco who he deeply missed since his passing in 2023.