Paul Dale Knaus, 75 of Mattoon, formerly of Arcola, died at 2:29 a.m. Monday, September 22, 2025 at Carle Hospital in Urbana.

Paul was born January 10, 1950 in Tuscola, the son of Dale and Meriedith Roberts Knaus.  He married  Kay Lynn Field on May 2, 1986; she preceded him in death on August 17, 2016.

Survivors include his daughter, Debbie (Greg) Ikemire of Effingham; 5 grandchildren, Carson Blaine Fonner, Kendall Reese Fonner, William (MacKenzie) Fonner, Bryce Ikemire, and Mackenzie Ikemire.  He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kay; brother, Terry, and sister, Lynn.

Paul graduated from Arcola High School Class of 1968 and attended Southern Illinois University where he played basketball.  He was an avid sports fan, music savant, walked miles daily, enjoyed reading, enjoyed a "toddy", and was a fabulous bartender.

He had worked at Trailmobile in Charleston and later worked with his brother on interstate construction.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 25, 2025 at Shrader Funeral Home, Arcola, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service.  Burial will follow in the Arcola Cemetery.

Online condolences to the family may be shared at www.hilligossshraderfh.com.