Paul F. Birk, age 90, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Thursday morning, February 27, 2025.

He was born February 3, 1935, in Belleville, the son of the late Franz and Catherine (Mueth) Birk.  Paul’s brother, Karl J. Birk, also preceded him in passing.

Paul attended St. Mary Grade School and was a 1953 graduate of Cathedral High School.  He earned his B.S. and M.S. degrees in Education at Southern Illinois University–Carbondale.  He served in the U.S. Army from 1958–60, and went on to begin his professional career at Flora High School, starting his tenure as a teacher and coach before ultimately serving as a longtime guidance counselor until retirement.  Paul was a dedicated member of the Flora Elks for over 64 years, contributing his time to countless programs supporting their mission of helping others, especially young people.  He was a supportive and faithful parishioner of St. Stephen Catholic Church in Flora.

Paul is survived by four nephews, Steve (Judy) Birk, David (Joyce) Birk, Jeff (Erin) Birk, and Greg (Lauren) Birk; by a niece, Dianne (Patrick) Jurgensmeyer; and also his sister-in-law, Carol Birk Woodrum.

A funeral Mass for Paul F. Birk will begin at 12 noon on Tuesday, March 4, at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Flora.  Burial will follow at St. Stephen Catholic Cemetery.  A visitation will take place at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass.  Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.

Memorial donations are the preferred form of remembrance and are suggested to the donor’s choice of St. Stephen Catholic Church in Flora, the Flora Elks, or Vitas Community Connection.  Any memorial donations may be mailed to Frank & Bright Funeral Home, 500 N. Main St., Flora, Illinois 62839.  To share a condolence or memory, please visit: www.frankandbright.com