CW04 Paul Edward Linn, USN, Retired, passed away on October 5, 2023. Born in Greene County, Iowa on April 4, 1933, he was the son of Floyd Linn and Mary Catherine Linn. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his siblings Mike, Jim, Helen and Sue.
Growing up, his father called him Buster, as a result he was known as "Buss" all his life. While working for the railroad in Chicago he met Lorraine Marie McMahon and the two were married on April 4, 1959. Their marriage lasted over 64 years until the time of his death.
Paul was a US Navy "Seabee" up to his retirement in 1979 after 27 years. He was deeply involved in the navy's shore-based nuclear program and did three, 13-month tours to Antarctica where he helped run the nuclear power plant at McMurdo Station. In addition to Antarctica Paul had numerous other postings in his Navy career, including San Diego, CA, Ft. Belvoir, VA, Port Hueneme CA and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Following his retirement from the Navy, Paul continued his nuclear power work for Babcock and Wilcox (later Framatome). He and his bride traveled all over the USA for assignments at various power plants. He retired from Framatome after 17 years.
Paul loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman and scuba diver. An animal lover, he and Lorraine raised dogs, cats and horses. He loved gardening and raised the most amazing tomatoes.
Paul and Lorraine attended Holy Cross Church in Lynchburg, where Paul served as an usher.
Paul is survived by his wife, Lorraine Marie Linn, his sister Barb, daughter Debi Langley and son, Paul Edward Linn II. Also surviving are grandchildren Melissa Linn, Kristen McCormick, Elizabeth Snow, Shawn Langley, Patrick Langley and great-grandchildren Stefan Grant, Blake Snow, Lewis White III, Aria White and Clark Langley.
A visitation for Paul will be held Friday, October 13, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Whitten Timberlake Chapel, 7404 Timberlake Rd. A funeral mass will occur Saturday, October 14, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 701 Clay Street.
Paul will be laid to rest in Fort Hill Memorial Park, 5196 Fort Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Holy Cross Catholic Church.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whittentimberlake.com for the Linn family.
