Paul R. Bequette

Paul Ryder Bequette, 77, passed away August 16, 2024, in Tomah.
Paul was born April 4, 1947, in St. Louis, MO. He dedicated his life to serving his community and country, marked by decades of service as a police sergeant with the La Crosse, WI, police department and retiring as a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army. Paul was well respected all throughout his life.
Paul was a proud graduate of Holmen High School and later attended UW-Eau Claire, where he furthered his education before embarking on a notable career in law enforcement and military service. His commitment to service was evident through his dual roles in both the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army Reserves, where he exemplified leadership and dedication. This dedication was displayed when he proudly returned to the U.S. Army after 911 when he was called up to train the troops for Iraqi Freedom.
A man of many interests, Paul loved the outdoors, especially fishing, hunting, and boating, which provided him with great joy. He so loved going on his ‘toon’ on the river. He also loved going to the MN State Fair with his family over the years. We sure had fun trying out all the new foods!
Paul enjoyed his time with his son, Ryan, hunting and camping at his land up north. And we all had a wonderful time going up to his land camping, ATV-ing, and having campfires.
Paul and his wife, Cheryl, had so much fun together over the years boating, camping, dancing, going to the Moose Lodge in La Crosse, and having a cocktail while talking about everything in their backyard! They were married for over 55 years! They met in La Crosse and married shortly after as Paul was drafted in the Vietnam War. They lived in Dover, DE, and then Albuquerque, NM, before moving back to the Wisconsin area. They even had a great trip going across the country in their white Volkswagen van, camping out along the way while they were newlyweds. They loved each other so much!
He then had three children, whom he loved very much and worked very hard for. He was a great dad and we had so much fun together and so many fun memories. Thank you dad for everything!
Above all, he was a wonderful husband and father, deeply devoted to his family, working tirelessly to support and nurture them.
Paul is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl Bequette of Holmen, WI; daughter, Renee Bequette (Ron) Lund of La Crosse, WI; son, Ryan Bequette of La Crosse, WI; and grandson, Justin Lund, who is stationed in San Diego, CA; and granddaughter, Rayanna of the Milwaukee, WI, area.
He was preceded in death by his loving daughter, Rochelle Bequette; his loving mother, Myrle Bequette; and his father, Paul F. Bequette.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no services. Paul’s legacy of service, love, and dedication to his family, country, and to the Lord will forever be cherished and remembered by those who knew him.
We miss you so much! Until we see each other again, we love you.