Paul Michael Pearce, 70, of Rockford, passed away peacefully at his home on August 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Four years ago, Paul was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was given just six months to live. Determined to spend every possible moment with those he loved most, he defied the odds through his unwavering strength, remarkable resilience, and, as his family affectionately said, his trademark Irish stubbornness. His greatest wish was to remain here with his family long enough to meet and truly know his beloved grandson-a dream he was blessed to fulfill. The day Benjamin was born became one of the happiest days of Paul's life, and every moment they shared together was a gift he treasured beyond words.

Paul was born on February 6, 1956, in Rockford, the son of Edward and Mary Lucille (LaFleur) Pearce. He attended Boylan High School.

At just sixteen years old, Becky Wienk met the man who would become her best friend, lifelong companion, and devoted husband. From that day forward, they shared a beautiful love story that spanned nearly five decades. Paul and Rebecca "Becky" Wienk were united in marriage on June 24, 1978, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Rockford. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, music, and unwavering devotion to one another and to their daughters.

Music was woven into the fabric of Paul's life. A gifted guitarist with an incredible knowledge of music, he was a proud member of the River City Band, which received a RAMI Award in 2007. Whether someone named a classic rock anthem, a country favorite, or an old standard, Paul could instantly tell you the artist, the year it was released, and who had recorded it again years later. His passion for music was extraordinary, and he loved sharing it with everyone around him.

Paul was formerly employed in healthcare maintenance, where his dependable nature, strong work ethic, and willingness to lend a hand earned the respect of those who worked alongside him.

When he wasn't playing guitar, Paul enjoyed cheering on the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs. Family and friends also knew him as the go-to source for the latest Weather Channel updates and Fox News stories. His curiosity knew no bounds. A lifelong student of history, he loved reading and researching everything from the Civil War and World War II to the history of food, supper clubs, and music. His remarkable memory and wealth of knowledge made him the person everyone wanted on their trivia team.

Above all else, Paul cherished his family. He was a loving and devoted husband whose greatest joy was simply being with Becky. He was a proud father whose daughters always knew they were deeply loved and that no matter what life brought, their dad would always be in their corner. Becoming "Papa" to Benjamin was one of the greatest blessings of his life, and the bond they shared filled his heart with immeasurable pride and happiness. His family was, without question, the center of his world.

Paul is lovingly survived by his wife, Becky; daughters, Alicia (Ronney) Ledington and Anna Pearce (fiancé, Tony Young); cherished grandson, Benjamin Michael Pearce Young; brother, Thomas (Debbie Stasica) Pearce; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Joanie Pearce, Lawana Franseen, Kenneth Wienk, Bruce Wienk, Jonathan (Kathy) Wienk, Cheryl Greenlee, and Barbara (Gene) Eicksteadt; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. He also leaves behind his faithful companions, Apollo, the family's beloved Yorkie, and Athena, the family cat.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Richard Pearce, Catherine Pearce, Mary Koroll; brothers-in-law, George Greenlee, Richard Wienk, and Mike Carlson; sisters-in-law, and Catherine Von Hayden; niece, Jennifer Carlson and nephew Ricky Pierce.

Paul's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of MoCara Hospice for their exceptional care, especially nurses Ruth Marriett and Sarah Givens whose kindness, compassion, and dedication went far beyond expectation. They also offer a special thank you to Dr. Steve DiSanti of OSF Hospital and Heather Hartman of Jet Healthcare for her outstanding support, friendship, and care throughout Paul's journey.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 4301 N. Main St., Rockford. An additional visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026, at the funeral home, followed by a funeral service at noon. Fr. William Wentink will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded.

To share a memory or leave an online condolence, please visit www.graceFH.com.