Captain Paul Andre Ebiner

Paul was born on December 23, 1933, in Madera, California, the youngest of three brothers born to Morris and Virginia Ebiner. He grew up on a farm in California’s San Joaquin Valley, surrounded by livestock, open skies, and the hum of hard work. Paul had his eyes on the sky from an early age. He earned his pilot’s license while in college, joined the U.S. Air Force in 1954, and flew F-80s out of Elmendorf AFB in Alaska during the Cold War. Later, he continued serving in the California Air National Guard, flying F-86s and F-102s. Over 20 years of combined military service, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel — a true testament to his dedication and skill as an aviator.

After his military career, Dad joined United Airlines, where he spent 33 years flying everything from DC-8's to 747s, retiring as a Captain and Check Airman in 1993.

While based in Los Angeles, he met his future wife, Doris, a flight attendant for American Airlines. They built a life and family

together, raising two children — Jeff and Jennifer — and later becoming proud grandparents to Jeff's son, Colin.

After retirement, Mom and Dad traveled the world with close friends, always chasing new horizons. Even when Alzheimer’s entered the flight plan, Dad faced it with quiet courage and grace.

Paul was a husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and pilot to the core — a man who lived with steady hands, a calm voice, and an adventurous heart.

He is survived by his wife, Doris; his children, Jeff and Jennifer; and his grandson, Colin, who proudly carries his family’s legacy forward.

“Cleared for final approach, Captain.

You are wheels-up and heading home.”

A visitation will be held at Dopkins Funeral Chapel, located at 189 South J Street, Dinuba, California, on December 4, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

A funeral mass will take place at St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, 356 N Villa Ave, Dinuba, California, on December 5, 2025, starting at 10:00 am.

Paul's final resting place will be at Smith Mountain Cemetery, 42088 Rd 100, Dinuba, California.