Paul N. Cousins, “Mr. Dexter,” age 84, of Dexter, Michigan passed away on December 9, 2022 after a long and well-lived life. During a brief illness, he was lovingly cared for at home by his family, who was there when he left this world to reunite with the love of his life, Pat.
Paul was born on September 1, 1938 in Gary, Indiana to Harry and Alice Cousins. He graduated from Portage High School, and later Bryan College in Dayton, TN, where he met Pat. They were married for 61 years and raised their family in Dexter.
Paul taught Environmental Science and Biology at Dexter High School for 20 years and provided Union leadership in the Michigan Education Association. He then followed his passion and opened Cousins Heritage Inn in 1984. He and Pat put their hearts into their award winning restaurant and operated it until 2001.
Many will remember Paul for his involvement in the community, including service on the Dexter City Council, and Huron River Watershed Council, saving Gordon Hall, the Capital Campaign Committee for the Chelsea Hospital Cancer Center, developing Mill Creek Park, starting the Community Garden, and many arts and music organizations including Ann Arbor Summer Fest. Paul was one of the original Dexter Rotarians, finding additional opportunities to serve and developing many friendships.
Paul was preceded in death by his soulmate, Pat, in September 2021. He is survived by his son, Kevin, and granddaughter, Maura; son, Dennis (Kathy), and grandchildren, Kyle and Kara; and son, Jon. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Alice (Gary) Allen, niece, Gayle, and nephew, David Allen. Paul is loved and will be missed by a large extended family which includes many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
Kevin, Dennis, and Jon would like to thank family, friends, and community members who loved and supported Dad.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that check donations are sent to the Rotary Club Foundation at P.O. Box 37, Dexter, MI 48130, or you can send electronic donations to Maura via ZelleMaura.Cousins@gmail.com or CashApp at $MauraAnnCousins.
The donations will be used for a memorial and to establish a scholarship fund administered by the Dexter Rotary.
A Memorial Service will take place at the Dexter High School Auditorium on Earth Day - Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. After a brief service, all are invited to stay for a few select musical performances in honor of Paul.
The family will receive friends at the high school auditorium from 10-11 a.m.
