Brother of U-M medical student: 'His life came to an end in his prime'
As Paul DeWolf's family works to understand his death, his brother tells AnnArbor.com they are remembering a life ended too soon.
Joshua DeWolf said his family is asking for prayers Friday night. He said the family is struggling to understand his death.
"As we struggle to understand what happened we know that Paul is now in Heaven with his Savior," Joshua DeWolf wrote in an email. "He has completed his final race and is now claiming his prize. He now is able to run and fly with the angels."
Courtesy photo
Paul DeWolf was found dead of a single gunshot wound Wednesday in his home on the 200 block of North Ingalls Street. Police are investigating his death as a homicide.
To this point, police have not released any suspect information. The apartment where Paul DeWolf died was in order and nothing appeared to be out of place or stolen, according to Ann Arbor police investigators.
Paul DeWolf was entering his fourth year as a medical student at the University of Michgan and was a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force.
Joshua DeWolf said his brother was excited about beginning a military career after graduation in May 2014.
"His life came to an end in his prime," Joshua DeWolf said.
On behalf of his family, Joshua DeWolf thanked friends, family and strangers for their well wishes following his brother's death.
He said the family is taking comfort in knowing Paul DeWolf lived a full life, even before his untimely death.
"Paul was a remarkable human being," he said. "He was a brother, a son, a man of faith, and a good friend to everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him."
Funeral arrangements for Paul DeWolf are still being made.
Anyone with information on his death is encouraged to call the Ann Arbor police anonymous tip line at 734-794-6939 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK UP (773-2587)
Kyle Feldscher covers cops and courts for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at kylefeldscher@annarbor.com or you can follow him on Twitter.
Comments
Judy
Mon, Jul 29, 2013 : noon
Joshua DeWolf, what a beautiful tribute to your brother. My prayers are with you and your family. God Bless you.
Momma G
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 11:50 p.m.
My thoughts and prayers are with this family. Such a senseless murder and I know A2 police will do everything in their power to bring this cowardly murderer to justice. May God be with the family & friends of this bright young man.
Mike
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 6:42 p.m.
I just don't understand why someone would want this young man dead, especially since it wasn't a robbery.
Messa
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 6:26 p.m.
I'll just say condolences to the family, since that's all I'm allowed to say on this glorified movie guide without getting my post deleted.
Jack Gladney
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 9:52 p.m.
We're all certain that they will cherish your sentiments in these days of mourning.
julieswhimsies
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 6:09 p.m.
Sending blessings to you now...Your brother sounds like he was a great guy. I am SO sorry for your loss!
mady
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 4:37 p.m.
My deepest sympathy to the family. May God hold you in the hollow of His hand during this painful time.
KateT
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 1:11 p.m.
Joshua, As you keep your heart open to knowing the truth, understanding may be difficult, because how does one understand a horrible evil? Some things are just totally senseless and hurt so very much. But, the world is a better place because your brother was in it, a healer and lover of life. Keep running your race in the best possible way, even though it may be so hard to do at times, and this will make Paul proud of you. You are never alone.
Wondering
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 12:50 p.m.
It seems absolutely devastating for the family and devastating and terrifying for everyone in our community that such a thing could happen, especially in the context of a professional fraternity group living situation. Yes, violent crimes do sometimes happen, but almost never in such contexts--because everyone is looking out for everyone else and knows and cares when something amiss is happening. It seems crucially important that the family, and the whole community that stands together with them wrapping our arms around them, quickly understand how such a thing could happen. With deepest deepest condolences to the DeWolf family. And many many prayers that the family will soon have some answers regarding this senseless and terrifying crime against all that we value deep in our hearts as a loving, caring, deeply connected community.
mssomebodynice
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 12:36 p.m.
This is such a sad story. My heart bleeds for this family. It is so upsetting. I am at a loss for words but just want to say that I am glad he was faithful and a good man. God will have a special place for him. Hugs.
Eddie
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 6:40 a.m.
As born and raised in A2. This is this not normal. A2 police, made a big statement. Violent crimes happen. I know the AAPD will make sure this is solved!!!
dougfroma2
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 10:14 p.m.
Has the FBI or Air Force military police been contacted?
SkiBunny123
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 5:01 a.m.
I am so sorry for the loss if your brother, your son , and friend . It is senseless, and a bright young star was taken from this word. May God grant Paul endless life, and your family and friends, peace . I pray for comfort for all.
Timber
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 2:30 a.m.
My sincere condolences to the DeWolf family and friends. He sounds like a wonderful young man. I will keep your family in my prayers. May God comfort you and strengthen you during these sorrowful times. Pax.
Kai Petainen
Fri, Jul 26, 2013 : 11:59 p.m.
Hugs and prayers
Kyle Feldscher
Fri, Jul 26, 2013 : 11:41 p.m.
Joshua's full statement was extremely eloquent and moving. I wanted to post it in full here. His words are below. "Paul was a remarkable human being. He was a brother, a son, a man of faith, and a good friend to everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him. His infectious smile spread to everyone he talked to. He was a student, a healer, a role model, and a lover of life. He loved to run, workout, and play games of all kinds. He was excited about starting his military career. His life came to an end in his prime. He will be missed in the deepest possible way. He was loved. As we struggle to understand what happened we know that Paul is now in Heaven with his Savior. He has completed his final race and is now claiming his prize. He now is able to run and fly with the angels. Pray for Paul, pray for us his family and friends, and pray for comfort for all involved. We want to thank everyone for their well wishes, thoughts, and prayers. Paul will be greatly missed but will always be cherished in our heart and minds."
mady
Sat, Jul 27, 2013 : 4:34 p.m.
Kyle, what a beautiful tribute. Thanks for posting it.