APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – Paul Willems, a decorated Vietnam War veteran and key figure in launching Appleton’s Mile of Music festival, has died after an 18-month battle with ALS.
According to a press release, he passed away on May 14th at Unity Hospice in De Pere at age 78. A memorial service with military honors was held on June 7th.
The release says Willems played an integral role in the early years of Mile of Music, joining the launch team as co-producer when the festival began in 2013. His younger brother, Dave, Willems, created the now-popular downtown music celebration and credited Paul’s support as instrumental in getting the project off the ground.
Paul F. Willems
“[Paul] was always up for a challenge, even the goliath ones,” said Dave Willems. “I wouldn’t have pursued it without his blessing and help.”
Though semi-retired, the release states that Paul joined Willems Marketing & Events, Inc. in 2001 as a consultant for the Appleton Area School District. He soon became a full partner in the firm, taking on roles as chief operating officer and chief financial officer before retiring at age 71 in 2017.
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The release highlights that he was known for his steady leadership and community-driven focus, he contributed both financially and operationally to Mile of Music’s formation and continued to support the festival in behind-the-scenes roles like sponsorship recruitment, logistics, and stage management. His final work with the festival came during Mile 10 in 2023, shortly before his ALS diagnosis.
To honor his legacy, a memorial concert will be held held this fall at Gibson Community Music Hall, a staple venue of the Mile of Music. A date has yet to be released. The event will celebrate Willems’ passion for music, his role in community-building, and his lifelong love of rock ‘n’ roll.
In his memory, a fund has been established through Appleton Community Music, the nonprofit that supports Mile of Music. Donations can be made online at appletoncommunitymusic.org, or by mail to P.O. Box 1674, Appleton, WI 54912.
A separate scholarship fund through the UW-Green Bay Foundation also honors Willem’s advocacy efforts and service; donations can be made at uwgb.edu/foundation.
