Mile of Music Co-Producer Paul Willems Has Died

Paul Willems, a co-producer of Mile of Music at its launch in 2013 and during its early years, has died. He died May 14 at Unity Hospice in DePere at the age of 78, ending an 18-month battle with ALS.

Willems was the older brother of Mile of Music creator and curator, Dave Willems. While semi-retired, he joined Willems Marketing & Events, Inc. in 2001 as a consultant on a project for the Appleton Area School District, but soon jumped in fully as a co-owner and co-manager of the Downtown Appleton marketing and promotions firm that specializes in community-forward projects. He wore several hats, including chief operating officer and chief financial officer before what he called his official “early retirement” at age 71 in 2017.

The elder Willems was a critical member of the Mile of Music launch team, committing significant financial and in-kind support both personally and through the company. He continued his support of the festival through the years, helping with a number of what he called “backstage” roles including sponsorship recruitment, logistics and stage management and hosting. His last work at the festival was at Mile 10 in 2023 before his ALS diagnosis in November of that year.

Paul Willems was a decorated Vietnam combat veteran, having served as the Captain and Battery Commander of the 23^rd Artillery Group in areas near Saigon. He was awarded three bronze stars, including one for valor, during his 11-month tour of duty.

“I am forever grateful to Paul for being an exemplary brother, colleague and mentor and was so proud when he joined the company because he was as or even more devoted to community-building,” Dave Willems said. “He was always up for a challenge, even the goliath ones, and I was thrilled when he saw the same potential in Mile of Music for community impact as I did because I wouldn’t have pursued it without his blessing and help.”

A memorial gathering with military honors was held on Saturday, June 7. A memorial concert will be scheduled this fall at Gibson Community Music Hall to recognize Willems’ role in Mile of Music and to celebrate his life-long love of rock ‘n’ roll.

A memorial fund has been established within Appleton Community Music, the supporting non-profit of Mile of Music, in honor of Willems. Donations can be made here, or P.O. Box 1674, Appleton, WI 54912. An additional memorial fund, the “Paul Francis Willems Democracy in Action” scholarship fund has been set up through the UWGB Foundation. This scholarship highlight’s Paul’s advocacy work. Donations can be made here or UW-Green Bay Foundation, Attn: Cofrin Library Room 805, 2420 Nicolet Drive, Green Bay, 54311-700.

A full link to Paul’s obituary can be found here.