It is with sadness that we announce Paul’s passing at the Red Deer Regional Hospital on September 10th, 2023. Paul was born in Esk, Saskatchewan and attended High School in Drake and the U of S, graduating with an Industrial Arts Major. His teaching career took him to Lloydminster, Carlyle, Saskatoon and Vermilion. After his retirement in 1989, he spent 2 years teaching woodworking students in Swaziland. Paul undertook a variety of volunteer positions, some being Alberta Winter Games and Habitat for Humanity; he also took on active roles in various churches. He was always eager to help in any situation and had a generous, patient and kind spirit. Paul loved a good story or joke and was often the life of the party. Paul resided in all three of the Western provinces and enjoyed the outdoors having many camping and fishing adventures. In recent years Lauri and Kevin’s cabin was a favorite destination. He enjoyed playing a variety of card games, especially cribbage. His woodworking skills provided many family and friends with lovingly crafted items. Paul’s health began a steady decline in 2023. He bravely endured several hospital stays and procedures and was always kind and grateful to those who cared for him.

Paul will always lovingly be remembered by his family.  His children Patti (Neil) Paetsch of Regina, Randy (Sandi) of Christina Lake, BC, Lauri (Kevin) Young of Red Deer. Grandchildren Ryan (Kate McInnis) Gniewotta, Cory (Holly) Paetsch, Chris Young, Tyler (Natalie Coquand) Gniewotta, Justin (Lisa-Marie Brennan) Young, Chalan (Joel) Sawatzky, and Jordan Paetsch. Great-grandchildren Olivia, Raina and Darby Paetsch, Lydia and Heidi Sawatzky, Una, Willow, Quinn and Idris Gniewotta, and Florence, Morris and Bonnie Gniewotta. Brothers Ed and Wally (Shirley), Sisters Irene and Angela, Sisters in-law Norma, Gail, Marlene, Verna Jean (Bill), Marian (Cam), Claudette, Glenna (Bob), his Godchild Jared, many nieces and nephews, and his special friend Olga.

In 2007, Paul was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Gladys (Rode). Others that predeceased him were his parents Eduard and Meta, parents-in-law Albert and Bertha Rode, brother Harold and sister Esther, as well as in-laws Elaine, Ernie, Al, Larry, George, Elsie, Bob, Lena, Gordon and Martin.

A private memorial will be held at a future date. Interment will follow at Lanigan Lutheran Cemetery.

• Date : 2023-09-10
• Location : Eventide Funeral Home