Elmhurst, a suburban community known for its tranquil streets and tight-knit community, is now mourning the loss of Roger Paulhus, a Salvation Army bell ringer whose presence had become synonymous with the holiday spirit for over two decades. As reported by NBC Chicago, Paulhus passed away suddenly, just a day before Christmas Eve, a stark reminder of the ephemeral nature of life and how swiftly it can change.
Known for his unwavering commitment, Paulhus was more than just a fixture outside the Jewel Osco on York Street; he was, for many, a beacon of kindness. "He always said hello and super friendly he was always there," local customer Felecia Brandies-Konieczka told NBC Chicago. His dedication to the cause was apparent, as he rarely missed a day, regardless of the weather conditions. Even when ill-health loomed, his thoughts were not for himself, "just put me out there," he'd insist, according to Salvation Army Captain Enrique Coreano.
Roger's impact on the Red Kettle campaign was significant, not only through his longstanding service but also his personal success in fundraising. "Each year he raised over $15,000 by himself," Coreano revealed in an interview with WGN-TV. These funds were vital in supporting various community assistance programs, including a food pantry, summer camp experiences, and help with electricity bills.
Paulhus's story is especially poignant considering his own experiences of hardship. At one point, he, too, knew the stabbing pangs of need, a period in which he was transient and reliant on the benevolence of strangers. "At some point, he was transient. At some point, he was blessed because people came alongside him and were able to give him things that he didn’t necessarily request but they knew he needed," Coreano explained to WGN-TV. It's this shared understanding of struggle and community support that perhaps fueled his two-decade-long commitment to helping others.
To honor Paulhus' legacy, the community and other volunteers saw it fitting to set up a kettle in his memory for the final two days of the campaign. Albert Ryba, a local resident of 40 years, attests to Roger's devotion, "I remember him every Christmas being out there — rain or snow, shine or cold weather. He was very devoted," he told WGN-TV. The Sunday service at the Salvation Army Community Center in Oakbrook Terrace will provide a space for those who knew Roger, whether intimately or in passing, to tribute and commemorate a man whose simple act of ringing a bell resonated profoundly within the hearts of many.
