I remember as a baby, seeing Paul's face and feeling calmness and love - safety. My mom used to ask him to come and get me when I cried, with five children, she was busy.

"But why me?" Paul would ask.

"Because you are the only one who can stop her crying." My mom would tell him. 

As the years went by I remember watching my brothers play.  Soccer, they loved soccer.  Paul had talent, real talent.  I knew he would be a super star one day.  But Paul was fiercely independant and no one was going to tell him how to run his life.  He left home at an early age.  Tough times for him to be sure but I know he held onto his dreams and determination.  He had a strength, an under current of force, you could feel. His strength could not be measured. 

Paul met Mary, a beautiful girl with long, flowing blonde hair.  The girl of his dreams.  They were the perfect match.  I watched them grow up together, play and laugh together.  Their love is undeniable.

They raised two beautiful children, James and Jennifer.  They provided a loving home and encouraged each to live their lives to the very fullest, and they have, and they will continue to do so. 

Paul became a super star to his family and put his God given gifts and talents back into his home and his community. He coached, helped anyone that needed a hand, worked hard, was an honest family man and had limitless energy for his grandson, Ethan. He was fiercely possessive and so, so proud of his family.

He was the gatekeeper, rule maker, the provider, the inspiration and the fighter. A loving man.

And he did it all with a grin and a twinkle in his eye. Quick to laugh and quicker to forgive. 

He will be missed beyond words.  Forever loved. But not gone - such a powerful spirit does not die.