Paul Whetstone

Paul Mark Whetstone, a man whose zest for life couldn't be matched by the speed of any boat or plane, has embarked on his final adventure, leaving the shores of this world on December 26, 2024. Born in Columbus, OH, on January 4, 1953, Paul took the helm early and navigated through 71 years of a life that was anything but ordinary.

Married to the love of his life, Dr. Tina Grau, D.C., since June 30, 2007, Paul filled their years together with laughter, love, and probably a few too many "Hold my beer and watch this" moments. Paul's legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Tina; his son, Chris Whetstone; his daughter, Stacy Long (married to Tommy); his siblings, Judy Westman (Dave) and David Whetstone (Linda); and sister-in-law, Julie Whetstone as well as his stepson, Jared Grau (Kayla), and his adored grandchildren, Evie and Eddie. Preceding him in death were his parents, Drs. Paul and Anna Whetstone, and his brother, Jim Whetstone.

An alumnus of Ohio State University, Paul not only mastered microbiology but also the art of marching with "The Best Damn Band in the Land." His talent and dedication were immortalized when he dotted the "i" in the band's famous Ohio script—a privilege and a memory cherished by all who knew him. His intellectual prowess was further evidenced by his memberships in Mensa and the Top 1% Society, organizations for those with exceptional cognitive abilities.

Paul's love for boats and airplanes wasn't just a passing breeze. He raced sailboats and powerboats with enthusiasm that made even the sea and sky blush. His prized powerboat was his personal escape pod, Renegade, where he went full throttle into the horizon. His seafaring spirit led him to earn a 200-ton Master Coast Guard Captain license, and for 6 years, he captained a crew boat for TNT Services, navigating the Gulf near Galveston.

When he wasn't at sea, Paul was sky-high with his career in airplane services. After earning his Hallmark A & P diploma, he started Whetstone Avionics. He shared his knowledge as a teacher at Hallmark University for 6 years after piloting boats in Galveston .He was a serial entrepreneur, at the helm of Whetstone Aire, Meyers Aircraft Company, Renegade Maintenance Solutions, Green Fuel Boost, and Texas Rotax and Light Sport Aircraft companies.

He lived life with the throttle wide open, embodying the words adventurous, intelligent, and kind. He was intrinsically humble but was able to command authority when the need arose. Paul attempted things that no one else would ever try, and he did so with a laugh, often saying, “If one is not advancing, one is going backward. There is no such thing as standing still”.

Paul's legacy isn't just in the things he fixed or the adventures he undertook; it's in the hearts of those he touched with his boundless kindness and relentless curiosity. As we say goodbye to a man who lived more in 71 years than most could in several lifetimes, let's remember him with a smile, a laugh, and maybe even a daring feat or two in his honor. After all, as Mark Twain once said, "The secret of getting ahead is getting started." And oh, did Paul get started.

A memorial service honoring this incredible man will be held on February 22, 2025 at the Bulverde Airpark, located at 29890 Bulverde Lane, Bulverde, TX 78163. The service will start at 2 PM.

So, here's to Paul—a true captain, a soaring spirit, and a man who lived life full speed ahead. May the winds be ever in your favor, and the skies forever clear.