BOONE, Iowa—Michael Jay Paul “Mike” of Boone, Iowa, passed away peacefully in his home on the morning of January 31, 2025. Mike is survived by his parents, Jerry and Sara Paul; his partner, Pamela Walker; his siblings, Quint (Laura) Paul, Nancy (Pete) Cherkas, and Karen Jolley; his children, JW (Amy) Weddle, Brandon (Rayne) Wright, Jessica Paul, Katherine Paul (Mitchell Vose), and Gregory (Emma Rose) Paul; and his beloved grandchildren.
Born in Millington, Tennessee, to Jerry and Sara Paul, Mike spent his childhood exploring the dogwood patches of Douglas County, Missouri. It was there that his deep connection to nature and boundless curiosity first took root, traits that would shape his life and inspire those around him.
Mike was a master craftsman, not just with his hands but with his ideas. He had a rare gift for transforming imagination into reality. This was evident in his dedication to Swan Creek Cabinetry, where his passion for fine craftsmanship left a lasting impact.
At the headwaters of Swan Creek, the inspiration for his own company’s name, Mike began his career in the wood products industry by working at his family’s sawmill and lumber drying business. In 1988, Mike started Swan Creek as a furniture manufacturer but transitioned to crafting custom kitchens and baths not long after.
Mike relocated Swan Creek Cabinet Company to Boone, Iowa in the early 90’s, where it has continued to operate for over 30 years. Swan Creek’s long history of excellence in the community is not only a product of Mike’s tenacity, but of his innate ability to see opportunity around every corner. His legacy of integrity, creativity, and determination will continue on through the hearts and hard work of the Swan Creek team.
Beyond his work, Mike found solace and adventure in the wilderness and on the water, exploring anywhere his sails or paddle would take him. His love for the outdoors was not just a personal passion but a gift he shared with his children and grandchildren, instilling in them the same spirit of adventure and deep reverence for nature.
Those who knew Mike will always remember the crinkle of his nose and his full-body laughter when caught in the delight of a story. His tales, rich with humor and heart, had a way of amplifying joy and returning it to all who had the privilege of listening.
A memorial service to honor Mike’s life will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, February 7, 2025, at the Iowa Arboretum and Gardens (1875 Peach Avenue, Madrid, IA 50156). A gathering to greet the family will follow from 3:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the same location. The service will be livestreamed and available for viewing on Mike’s Tribute Wall on the Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel website.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel at Sixth and Marshall Streets in Boone. Online condolences may be left to Mike’s family at www.schroedermemorialchapel.com.
Michael Paul, 56, Boone, Iowa
