Obituaries

Robert “Paul” Neelis, age 71, passed away unexpectedly on the afternoon of Tuesday, December 2, 2025. He was born on October 8, 1954, in St. Ignace, Michigan, to Carl and Ann (Martineau) Neelis.

Paul was a lifelong resident of St. Ignace and poured his heart into owning and operating two well-known businesses, Justrite Bakery and Northern Lights Restaurant, for many years. Not yet willing to embrace retirement, in the more recent years he worked for St. Ignace Area Schools as a transportation supervisor.

Paul spent much of his free time outside on his property, where you’d almost always find him with a cup of coffee, working on a project in the woods or crafting something in his woodworking space. He found great joy in time spent with his family, whether taking rides in his side-by-side or sharing playful moments with his beloved grandchildren.

Paul is survived by his significant best friend, Janice Steiner; his children, Dana (Dan) Dombroski, Justin (Wendy) Neelis, Derek Neelis, and Ashley Neelis; grandchildren, Maddison, Preston, and Elliana Neelis and Celia Dombroski; brothers, Randy (Nancy) Neelis, Joseph Neelis, Jeff (Holly) Neelis; sisters, Ellen (Michael) McDonald, Monica (Gary) Sorenson, Mary Kaye (Phillip) Ruegg, and Carla Neelis; he is also survived by Nicole, Jimbo, Maizey, and Emerson Brown; Kari, JoJo, Trevor, and Avery Visnaw; and Amy, Ed, Owen, Caden, and Eli Lester.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Ann Neelis.

A graveside memorial will be held next summer, with details to be announced at a later date.

Paul’s final resting place will be St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Cemetery in St. Ignace, Michigan.

Family Life Funeral Homes – St. Ignace assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.