Paul E. Chojnicki (77) of Effingham

Paul E. Chojnicki, 77, of Effingham, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at his home, surrounded by his family.

At the request of the family, the service will be private. There will be no visitation. Memorial donations may be made directly to the Wounded Warrior Project or the donor’s choice. Arrangements are in the care of Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.

Paul was born on January 7, 1947, in Rockford, Illinois, the son of Paul and Alice (Peter) Chojnicki. He married Pamela Waugh on September 7, 1968.

Paul graduated from Rockford West High School in Rockford, Illinois in 1965. He went on to serve in the United States Marine Corps from August of 1965 to 1969. During this time, he completed two tours in Vietnam with the First Marine Division - Second Battalion. In 1966, Paul was seriously wounded in combat. During his recovery, he was proudly awarded the Purple Heart from General William Westmoreland. Once returning stateside, Paul continued his service at the United States Pentagon. He was honorably discharged in 1969 with the rank of Sergeant. Paul graduated from Northern Illinois University in 1973 with an undergraduate degree in finance. He later returned to Northern Illinois and obtained his Master’s Degree in Finance. Paul began his 45-year career in business in 1973. In 1980, he and his family moved to Effingham where Paul took the position as Comptroller of World Color Press. He spent 15 years at World Color including five years as the company’s Chief Financial Officer. Following his tenure at World Color, he continued his professional career as a business and financial consultant.

Paul enjoyed gardening, fishing, cooking and tending to his saltwater aquarium. He was an avid fan of Chicago sports closely following the Cubs, Bears and Blackhawks. Some of his fondest memories were of time spent with his beloved dogs Sydney and Bailey.

Paul is survived by his wife, Pamela; children, Eric (Julia), Chad (Traci) and Amanda (Keith) Leinberger; grandchildren, Thomas Chojnicki, Lucy Chojnicki, Margo Chojnicki, Kate Chojnicki and Willa Leinberger; brother, John (Bonnie); sisters, Jan Wright, Nancy (Mike) Mangiaracina and Sandra (Don) Romoser.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Roger; in-laws, Frank and Helen Waugh; and brother-in-law, Larry Wright.

Paul’s family would like to thank HSHS Home Care and Hospice for the exceptional care that was provided in the last days of his life.