I'm sorry to ruin everyone's holidays with this sad news. Paul L. Groot passed away on Christmas Eve, 12/24/2025.

Here is Paul's obituary:

Paul Groot Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Kolssak Funeral Home, Ltd. on Dec. 26, 2024.

Paul L. Groot, 68, of Buffalo Grove, IL, passed away on December 24, 2024. Born on February 1, 1956, in Chicago, IL, Paul was the cherished son of Howard and Patricia (Steinman) Groot. He grew up in a close-knit family, surrounded by his eight siblings, with whom he shared a deep bond throughout his life.

Paul was a proud graduate of Wheeling High School and Purdue University. His love for sports was evident from an early age-he excelled in basketball, football, and baseball during his high school years, and continued his passion for baseball at Purdue. He went to Purdue on a Chick Evans caddie scholarship where he played varsity baseball and was a 2nd team "All Big-Ten" selection as a catcher. He received the "Red Mackey Award" for his post-graduate work.

For over 30 years, Paul dedicated himself to teaching and coaching at Schaumburg High School, where he became a beloved figure in the community. As the head baseball coach, one of his proudest achievements was leading his team to a state championship in 1997. In 2000, his exceptional leadership earned him a well-deserved induction into the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. He finished his coaching career with an impressive 611-303 record.

Paul's personality was as warm and lively as the games he coached. He was fun-loving, approachable, and had a natural ability to connect with others. His sense of humor and positive energy made him a joy to be around. He was fortunate to have a close-knit group of friends who, over the years, became like an extended family, always there to share in both the big and small moments of his life.

Above all, Paul cherished his family. He was a devoted father, and grandfather, and his love for his grandchildren was immeasurable. He found great joy in spending time with them, sharing in their laughter and milestones. His family was his heart and his greatest pride.

Paul is preceded in death by his father, Howard; mother, Patricia; brother, Scott and (wife, Karen). He is survived by his daughter, Katelin Maldonado and her husband, Anthony; five brothers: Steven (wife, Katherine), Michael (wife, Terry), Doug (wife, Sharon), Craig (wife, Gail); three sisters: Jackie (husband, Mark Brown), Debbie Patrick (husband, Tom), and Lori Thompson (husband, Steve); along with two grandchildren, and many loving nieces, nephews, and their children.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his legacy of love, kindness, and dedication will live on in the countless lives he touched.

Visitation Friday, January 3rd from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kolssak Funeral Home, 189 S Milwaukee Ave (2 Blocks South of Dundee Road), Wheeling. A life celebration will be held the following day at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment to follow at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery, Palatine.

Rest in peace Paul.