Paul Taaka, 94, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away at  February 19, 2021 at his home. He was born May 1, 1926 in Jefferson County, Illinois to the late Charles Edward and Kate (Lancy) Taaka. Paul married Doris (Tucker) Taaka on April 22, 1950 and she preceded him in death on May 22, 2007.

Paul is survived by two sons, Rick (Sheila) Taaka of Mount Vernon, Illinois and Scott (Karen) Taaka of Mount Vernon, Illinois; daughter, Kris (Bob) Buttrum of Bluford, Illinois; six grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and beloved wife of fifty-seven years, Paul was preceded in death by sisters, Leta and Marie and brothers, Arthur, Henry, Edward, and Louis Albert.

Paul proudly served his country in the United States Army during World War II.  He later worked as a welder for the Mount Vernon Stove Foundry, then worked for and retired from Lays Manufacturing.  He was a charter member of Casey Avenue Baptist Church, established 1969, where he served as Song Leader for over fifty years.  He is dearly loved and will be missed by all who knew him.

A Visitation will be held Monday, February 22, 2021 from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, Illinois. A Funeral Service will begin at 1:00 pm at the funeral home with Pastor Jerry Montgomery officiating. Interment will follow at Bethel Memorial Cemetery in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Memorials may be made in Paul’s honor to Casey Avenue Baptist Church.

Please remember to observe social distancing at this time. We are limited to 50 people in our building at a time. Following the CDC and NFDA regulations, we encourage everyone to wear a mask. They will be made available, upon request.

Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.