Paul Dee Speer Jr.

April 15, 1932 - June 13, 2022

Paul D. Speer, age 90, of Northbrook, passed away on Monday, June 13, 2022. He was born in Chicago on April 15, 1932, to Paul and Helen Speer. Paul was a 1953 graduate of Stanford University, where he studied dramatic arts and played football. After graduation, Paul proudly served his country in the Navy. He served as Naval intelligence in both the Korean and Vietnam war. He was a Commander for 20 years and was awarded a Bronze Star, a National Defense Service Medal, a Joint Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. He retired from the Navy in 1973. A man always in pursuit of knowledge, Paul acquired his PhD in Business from Northwestern University and proceeded to teach at the Kellogg School of Management. Outside of his professional life, Paul was a man of many interests. He loved college football, especially his beloved Stanford. He was also a baseball fan and could always be found rooting for the Chicago White Sox. He was a big fan of spending time outdoors, especially golfing, bodysurfing, and fishing. Paul loved to travel to California and always spent his summers there. He was also a big fan of the theater and dramatic arts. Most of all, Paul enjoyed spending time with his family and being a Papa to his four grandchildren and his great-grandchild. He was a loving husband, father, and Papa and will be remembered for his love of life, and puns. Paul is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Yang Ye; daughter, Sandra (Ken) Hashiguchi; grandchildren, Alexandra Botthof, Brandon, and Chase; great-granddaughter, Autumn; and many beloved family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Michael. Visitation Friday, June 24, 2022 at Matz Mt. Prospect Funeral Chapel, 410 N. Rand Road, Mt. Prospect IL 60056 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at St. Thomas Becket Catholic Church, 1321 N Burning Bush Lane, Mt. Prospect, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow Mass at All Saints Catholic Cemetery, 700 N River Road, Des Plaines.