ILSE PALUS

Ilse Palus, 88, passed away peacefully at home on June 15, 2026, with family by her side.

Ilse was preceded in death by her parents, Viktor and Martha (née Broll) Palus; her brother, Reiner Palus; her nephew, Andreas Palus; and her longtime partner, Walter Schonhardt.

She is survived by her son, Tom Palus, and daughter-in-law, Katie Palus; her brothers, Manfred Palus (Ilse) and Herbert Palus (Waltraud, deceased); her nephews, Michael Palus (Anette) and Fr. Johannes Palus; her niece, Lucia Gesierich (Wolfgang); and many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends in both the United States and Germany. She was also a cherished Tante to many who became family through friendship and love.

A strong, independent, and hardworking woman, Ilse spent her life caring for others. Over the years she worked in many roles, most notably waitressing. She was known for her generosity, hospitality, strong opinions, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. She loved spending time with family and friends, sharing good food and conversation, traveling, and creating lasting memories with those she loved.

Her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with Walter and the loved ones who went before her.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Bernadette Church, 2256 Clague Rd, Westlake, OH (livestream available via saintbernadetteparish.org) on Friday, June 26, at 10:00 a.m. A private burial at Holy Cross Cemetery will take place at a later date.

The family would like to thank the caregivers and staff of Cleveland Clinic Hospice for their compassion and care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cleveland Clinic Hospice orThe Gathering Place.