Paul H. Bails

Paul Bails, age 68, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026. He was born on February 5, 1958 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the sixteenth child of John and Barbara Bails, whose remarkable family was featured in Life magazine. A proud veteran, Paul dedicated 20 years of honorable service to his country, retiring from the United States Air Force with the rank of Master Sergeant. He lived a life marked by love for his family, loyalty to his friends, and passion for the things that brought him joy. Paul will be remembered for his love of family, his sense of humor and his dedication to those he cared about. His legacy lives on through the family and friends who loved him and through the lessons, laughter, and support he shared throughout his life. Paul could often be found playing golf, adding to his sports card collection, putting together a new puzzle, listening to jazz music, or watching his favorite teams on TV. However, nothing brought him greater happiness than watching his grandchildren compete and his sons and daughters-in-law coach. He was always their biggest fan. At the heart of Paul’s life was his beloved wife, Pam. Together, they shared an unwavering partnership, with countless memories of their beautiful journey that took them around the globe. Pam was his constant support, his closest companion, and the love of his life. Their enduring bond built a foundation for their family, and her devotion brought him immense happiness and comfort throughout their 47 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Pam; his sons Ben and Joel; his daughters-in-law Nikki and Ashley; his cherished grandchildren Kambria, Grayson, Harper, Oakley, and Sloane; his brothers Robert, Don (Diane), Chuck (Laurie); his sisters Mary Knupp, Nancy Forrest (L.A.), Margaret, Elizabeth Conkel (Don), and June Walshire (Loren); his brothers- and sisters-in-law Kathy, Rosalind, Jack Voss, George Soto (Cindy), and Paul Soto; and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Barbara and John Bails; his brothers, William, James, Richard, and John (Karen); his sisters, Susan Voss, Linda Nemecek, and Sarah Menzer; his parents-in-law, Ben and Ida Soto; and his brothers- and sisters-in-law Molly Bails, Byron Knupp, Jorge Santiago, Rosie Santiago, Linda Mohammed, Sylvia Soto, and Pati Soto. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Memorial Donations may be directed to the Bails family to be donated to some of Paul's favorite charities.