Pae IL Ko, 76, of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2025.

Pae was born on April 12, 1948 in Incheon, South Korea. In 1975, Pae left his homeland of South Korea and came to the United States, carrying with him not only hopes and dreams but also an unwavering determination to build a better life for his loved ones. He accomplished that goal. During his 50-year residency in Huntsville, Alabama, Pae spent the majority of his professional career working for Parker Hannifin until retiring in 2012. For thirty years, he also owned and helped his wife successfully operate Seoul Oriental Groceries before closing the business and fully retiring in 2023. He enjoyed retirement and mostly spent his time surrounded by family and friends.

Above all, Pae loved and cherished his family. Pae is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Myong Im Ko, whose loyalty and love was unwavering. Together, they raised four children –YoungSu Hoy (Jeff), Kyong Roberts (Mark), Rose Ko (Bob), and Yun Sun Ko. His grandchildren, Zachary Hoy, Ryan Hoy, Sofia Roberts, Luke Roberts, John Axtell, and Oliver Axtell, brought him immeasurable joy and extreme pride. He is also survived by an aunt and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Chu Ho Haas; and his father, Yun Sup Ko.

A service to celebrate Pae's life will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Berryhill Funeral Home in Huntsville, Alabama. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., immediately followed by the service in the chapel. The family invites all who knew and loved Pae to join them in celebrating his life and honoring his memory.