Paul Francis “Pookie” Kearns, age 71, passed away at home on Monday, September 14, after a long battle with cancer.

Paul was born on February 1, 1955, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the son of Paul and Marie (Filardo) Kearns.

Paul began his working career at Wendtlandt's Construction before joining Ivey Construction, where he worked for 35 years before retiring. Over the years, he formed many friendships with the people he worked alongside.

Paul was a member of the Iowa County Horsemen and had a special love for harness racing, even owning a couple of horses himself. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, trap shooting, and cooking, but nothing was more important to Paul than his family. One of his greatest joys was watching and cheering on his three grandchildren at their sporting events.

Paul never met a stranger he couldn’t strike up a conversation with. He made many special friends throughout his life and was always willing to lend a helping hand. If someone needed something, Paul was the kind of person who would do whatever he could to help.

Paul is survived by his wife, Patty; his two children, Tracey Kearns and Paul (Wendy) Kearns; his three grandchildren, Zach (Abby) Cummings, Haylee (Will) Kearns, and Evan Kearns; his sister, Paula Mitchell; his brother, Frank Kearns; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Paul is preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, and in-laws Eddie and Lorraine Byous. His uncle Jack Filardo, and two brother in-laws Delbert Carey and Denny Mitchell.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 12:00 PM at St Mary & Paul Catholic Church in Mineral Point.  Fr. Alex Carmel will officiate.   Burial will be in St Paul's Cemetery at a later date.  A visitation will be held on Saturday from 9:00 AM until time of service at the church.  A luncheon will follow the Mass at St Mary's Catholic Center.

Paul will be remembered for the love he had for his family, the friendships he made, the stories and conversations he shared, and his willingness to always be there for the people he cared about. His family and friends will carry those memories with them for years to come.