Charles "Paul" Provencher (Papa Pro) For when the one Great Scorer comes to write against your name. He writes not that you won or lost but how you played the game. "Dad, you were the MVP" On April 23rd, 1925, the world was honored by the arrival of Charles "Paul" to his parents, Harold and Elizabeth Provencher. He grew up by city airport in Detroit and later moved to St. Clair Shores. There was one additional move with his parents when his father bought the adjacent lot to their home, jacked up the house and moved it onto the newly purchased lot. Dad attended De La Salle Collegiate High School in Detroit and graduated in 1943. Shortly after graduation, Uncle Sam invited him into the US Army where he worked his way up to the rank of Master Sergeant earning 3 bronze stars and numerous ribbons for meritorious service and service in the Pacific Theater in World War II. Upon surrender of the Japanese military, Dad's detachment became part of the occupational forces. He received an honorable discharge from the Army in 1946 and returned home to attend the Lawrence Institute of Technology to gain his certification as an electrician. During that time, he met the love of his life, Josephine Ann (Jo Ann) Hohner. They were married on May 7, 1949 and cherished 64 years together. Shortly after Paul and Jo Ann were married, Debi, Diane, Barb, Chuck, Bill, and Beth were welcomed into his arms. They were the pride and joy of their parents' lives. Dad devoted his time and life to providing for the family but always took time to read a story or play catch in the yard. Later, "Pa Teaser" as he affectionately became known to the 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, always took time to laugh and joke with the kids. Dad began his career at Ward Baking Company (Tip Top and Mr. Big Bread) where he dedicated 30 years before the company closed its Detroit operations. He was then recruited to Awrey Bakery and remained there until he retired in 1991. Outside of work, dad dedicated his time to family, church, and friends. He was a founding member of St. Paschal Baylon Church and served as a lecture, usher, and electrician. He was also one of the founding members of the All Saints Knights of Columbus and enjoyed playing third base for their baseball team. He used his baseball skills to coach his sons' little league baseball teams. He was an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers. Dad was preceded in death by mom (Jo Ann Provencher), his parents, and his brother Don. He is survived by his brother Gerry, his children, grand kids, and great grand kids. Dad was deeply loved by all of us and enriched the lives of anyone that had the honor and pleasure of knowing him. He will be truly missed by one and all. Visitation Information Howe-Peterson Funeral Home 9800 Telegraph Road (Between Wick Road and Goddard Road), Taylor, MI 48180 Friday, January 17, 2014 - 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm (Rosary at 7:00 pm) Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church 20170 Pinecrest Street, Taylor, MI 48180 Saturday, January 18, 2014 - 10:00 am Reception at the Knights of Columbus Hall (24900 Brest Road, Taylor, MI) immediately following the service.