OBITUARY
Paul Leinweber
February 29, 1924 – October 1, 2013
PLEASE SEE VIDEO OF PAUL'S LIFE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THIS WEBSITE -- "PLAY VIDEO" -- The following is an expanded biography of Paul's life. It differs from the obituary in that it tells more about what a special person Paul was:
Paul Leinweber was born on February 29, 1924, in Longmont, Co. He was a “leap year” baby, who was born at home. Paul was one of 14 children born to Henry and Matilda Leinweber, German Immigrants, who moved to the United States from Russia. He was the last surviving child, preceded in death by 13 siblings. Paul worked on the family farm from the time he was old enough to hold a tool. He attended school in Niwot and Longmont. Paul graduated from the “Old” Longmont High School in 1942, while working full time on the family farm. Some of his older brothers did not finish high school due to demands of the farm. As a result, Paul was determined that his children would not only graduate from high school, but from college, as well. His wish for his children was achieved, as both of his daughters graduated with honors from the University of Colorado Business School. Paul met his wife, Charlotte, in 1942 at Boulder’s Roller Skating Rink. They were married March 4, 1945 in Abilene, Texas. Charlotte enjoyed giving Paul, a “leap year” baby, special cards on his “real” birthday each 4 years. Paul worked as a Farmer until he entered the Army during World War II in 1944. He served as a Medic until his Honorable Discharge as a Staff Sergeant in 1946. He began his career with Public Service Company in Dec., 1947, where he worked until he retired as an Operations Supervisor in March, 1986. Paul was deeply respected by the many men who worked with and for him during his 39 years at Public Service Co. Many of the men during this time period had nicknames; Paul’s nickname was “Gooney”, the origin of which is unknown. But to this day he continues to be referred to by his nickname. Several years ago, and many years after Paul retired, one of his daughters contacted Xcel to report a natural gas leak. The gentleman who responded to the call asked if she was “Gooney’s” daughter, and stated that his name was “Chuy.” Paul was an institution and fixture in Boulder!! Regardless of where his daughter, who kept her maiden name of Leinweber, went in Boulder, she was asked if she was Paul’s daughter. When she returned to Boulder and purchased a home, she discovered that the neighbor behind her, as well the neighbor to the north of her, knew her Father well. Further, a resident of the street behind her had ridden with Paul to the Sugar Beet Factory when they were young men. These neighbors looked out for Paul’s daughter for him, one in particular. He would call Paul and not the daughter whenever a light needed repaired or even when the tractor fell off of the hose. Paul and Charlotte lived in two homes on the same street; most recently they lived together for 56 yrs in one residence and prior to that lived next door in a smaller home. Following Charlotte’s death in 2011, Paul stayed in this residence until his death. Their first child, Judy, was born in Boulder Memorial Hospital; Jan, their second daughter, was born in Boulder Community Hospital. One daughter was born on Tax Day and the other on Election Day; This was a source of humor throughout the years. Judy and Jan both attended Sacred Heart of Jesus Grade School; Casey Junior High; Boulder High School; and as previously stated, graduated from the University of Colorado with honors. Charlotte had also attended Casey Junior High and graduated from Boulder High School. Paul and Charlotte “adopted” Robin Bovard as their third daughter, not legally, but emotionally. She moved in with Judy in 1996, as for health reasons, Judy cannot live alone. Not only does she help Judy, but has taken care of Paul and Charlotte for over 17 years. In particular, she took care of Paul’s and Charlotte’s medications and other health care needs. Robin is a Certified Cancer Registrar for Exempla Healthcare. Paul was also close to his son-in-law, Jim Mulstay, who watched sports with him when visiting. Paul’s hobbies included watching: Baseball, particularly the Yankees (as years ago, the farm team for the Yankees was the Denver Bears); Football, obviously the Broncos; and old Western Movies; as well as working in his garden/yard. Before losing his eye sight, he loved to fly fish, especially with his baby brother, Richard, who preceded him in death. In 1989 Paul and Charlotte visited Judy in Newport Beach during the Christmas Season. Paul went on a deep sea fishing trip, where he won an award for catching not only the first fish, but also the largest. A picture is included. Paul was a lifetime member of the Boulder Elks Club, and attended weekly meetings until his eyesight prevented him from doing so. Paul and Charlotte loved animals. They loved their 3 miniature schnauzers: Tess, Millie, and Fritz, as well as their “grand-dogs”. Following Charlotte’s retirement, Paul and Charlotte purchased a Fifth Wheel. They traveled to many locations around the United States, during which they made many new friends. As referenced in his Obituary Notice, Paul never met a stranger. Paul and Charlotte were one of two residents from the neighborhood who lived there when Judy and Jan were children. Since they did not have grandchildren, they adopted the young children of the neighborhood’s second generation. As one well known former First Lady and Secretary of State has said many times: “It Takes A Village”, which is a wonderful segue to describing Paul’s neighbors. Despite losing sight in one of his eyes as a child in an accident and suffering from Macular Degeneration for 25 yrs., resulting in being legally blind, Paul was able to remain in his residence, as was Charlotte, who suffered from Alzheimer’s until her death. This was due in great part to the love and caring of Paul’s neighbors, who are a “Village.” They watched over him and treated him as a Father. These wonderful people were always there for Paul and Charlotte, shoveling snow, bringing firewood and food, and providing companionship. Paul was the “Guest of Honor” at each neighborhood gathering, which he loved to talk about. Paul did not have a “Seeing Eye” Dog, but did have a special canine companion, Koko, who would visit Paul looking for hugs and treats. Koko spent many hours with Paul providing unconditional love. There are several pictures of Paul’s beloved neighbors, and of course, a picture of Koko, included in this Biography. The other part of Paul’s Village was the Homewatch CareGivers; In particular, Ulla Westermann, Terri Kirk and Shari Griffin, who provided love and care to Paul and Charlotte for many years, and more recently Sandy MacKay, Diane Robison and Deb Gingerich!! There are pictures included with this Biography, including of Paul, Charlotte, neighbors, friends, and of course, Koko. Judy, Jan, and Robin wish to thank everyone who has provided love and companionship to Paul and Charlotte. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, 611 Granite Springs Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598.
Services
- Memorial Service Thursday, October 10, 2013
- Reception Thursday, October 10, 2013
- Committal Service Thursday, October 10, 2013
REMEMBERING
Paul Leinweber
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RECEIVE UPDATESDonna Rodgers
October 10, 2013
Paul niece Gerri was my best friend, we grew up together, we would go visit and have a great time.
Charles(my husband) worked with Paul and he would pick him up to go to breakfast. we both will miss him.
Love & Prayers to the family.
October 10, 2013
We will miss our Great Uncle Paul very much. He was such a kind hearted person and always had a smile. He always remembered all of the kids names and always asked about him. Wish we could attend the funeral Thursday, but can not get away from TN at this time. Our sincere thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Mark and Lori Scheidt (Leinweber).
Tom Hutchinson
October 9, 2013
I always remember my first summer working for Paul as a "summer grunt" in the mountains west of Boulder. He was a leader without trying to be one and always set a high bar for the men who worked for him. It was a pleasure to know Paul and Charlotte over these many years and I offer my condolances to his family.
October 9, 2013
Paul was the quintessential American. Giving, kind, extraordinarily skilled and modest to a fault. I had the pleasure of knowing Paul and "Char" from 1977 to 1987 as a neighbor across the street.
I was a single guy at the time and Paul (interestingly) always had a little 'counsel' to offer to me. A touch of Jack Daniels would enhance his insightful commentary and I spent many a delightful hour basking in the light that issued forth from Paul.
He loved to tinker and, having spent his entire life being useful and capable, the odd fixit tasks that he'd undertake for me were clearly relished.
Randy and Donna next door cared deeply for him and I'd reckon had much to do with his ability to remain in the house as long as he did.
Paul Leinweber was the kind of man that defined this country. I was surprised to discover that he had sight in one eye. I never knew it. He had to have volunteered as a Medic during the War, which would have been completely consistent with his spirit.
I'm traveling and won't be able to attend the service but my wife Anne, who also had great affection for Paul and Char, will be in attendance.
You must have been very proud of this deep and abiding soul.
All our respects and condolences.
Henry and Anne Beer formerly of 3076 10th Street.
Laura Bergman
October 8, 2013
I remember playing on Saturdays with Judy and others, while our little sisters, Jan and Peggy played; waiting for Boris Karloff to come on TV and scare us all to death! Paul and Charlotte did not seem to care how loud we screamed - only that we were having fun and kept room for cookies!
Our mothers' grandmothers were sisters! On behalf of the Bergman family, our condolences to the Leinweber family.
Sheila Grotzky
October 8, 2013
Paul and Charlotte used to go to dinner at the Black Eyed Pea with my Mom and Dad, and then with my Dad when my Mom passed away. They were such cheerful, wonderful people. RIP and how nice that he and Charlotte are together again. Sheila (Powell) Grotzky
October 8, 2013
What a wonderful dear person Paul was. He will be greatly missed by all at Dr. Cleeves office. Love and prayers for your family.
Homewatch CareGivers
October 7, 2013
Paul was a very kind man and beloved husband and father. Several of our caregivers have had the joy and privilege of getting to know Paul and his late wife, Charlotte, over the past several years. He will be dearly missed by the caregivers and support staff of Homewatch CareGivers. Our warmest thoughts are with his friends and family.
October 7, 2013
After a close personal friend of mine and to Paul had died in 1998 Paul always called every 3 to 4 weeks to see how I was doing. He was such a caring person and I will miss him. Bea Mulcahy
Cherie Graham (Gibout)
October 7, 2013
Paul and Charlotte were the greatest neighbors, friends and role models anyone could have. Paul was always there to give any kind of help to his neighbors when ever needed. Over the years I have always judged my neighbors by the "bar" set by Paul. Both my mom (Pat) and I have said of our neighborhoods since leaving Boulder. They are no "Paul Leinweber" He was the best. I will always have special memories of growing up with him in my life.
Terri Kirk-Beck
October 7, 2013
Paul and Charlotte have a very special place in my heart. I was blessed to have been able to know and care for them over the last 10 years. my love and prayers to the family.
Carol Barela-Smith
October 7, 2013
I hope all the memories of great times together,bring you all peace.I feel blessed to have visited and laughed,with both Char and Paul.They were very special people.
Rob Burkett
October 7, 2013
I had the distinct pleasure of working with Paul for several years and seeing him for several more after his retirement. He was SUCH a good man. Strong but always showing his genuine concern about how you were fairing in life. I feel fortunate to have known him.
John DeMers
October 6, 2013
The entire staff of Crist Mortuary would like to express their deepest condolences to Paul's family.
October 6, 2013
Paul was the best neighbor to my parents who lived next door - he shoveled the snow and did may odd jobs for my Mom after my Dad died. He and Charlotte were very dear in my heart. God Bless him.
October 6, 2013
My memories of my Uncle Paul have been mostly those since my father passed away and my mother, Esther Proctor, Paul's younger sister, moved to Loveland from Englewood about 8 years ago.
Mom and I would stop at KFC in Longmont on our way to Boulder to see Paul and Charlotte. Paul could really pack away the food in those days! He especially enjoyed my homemade cupcakes for dessert.
Mom had a special fondness for Paul because of his vision problems. She, like so many of us, was amazed at his ability to perform life's daily tasks with such a challenge. Especially inspirational was his gardening finesse.
After Charlotte died, and as Paul's vision deteriorated more and it became more painful for him to keep his eyes open, he would sit, with his head tilted back, eyes closed, and listen to Esther's renditions of growing up in Niwot. I thought he had fallen asleep on her, but every so often , he would get a word in.
My first visit without Mom, after she died in May, 2013, was a challenge for me, but Uncle Paul, in his matter-of-fact way put me at ease. His warm hug helped too!
On my final KFC catering visit a few months ago, I could tell Paul was very uncomfortable. He then informed me of his heart problem. I also wondered what a lonely feeling it must have been to be the last of the Leinweber legacy of so many siblings!
I have cherished memories of being a part of such a unique extended family.
Uncle Paul, I will miss our visits.
Love,
Deb Proctor
Chellee Courtney
October 5, 2013
I have so many cherished memories of Paul when I was growing up in the neighborhood. I still remember his Public Service truck he parked on the street at the end of his work day. Paul always said "Hi Chellee" and I still can hear his voice and see the smile on his face. He was a very kind and generous man; an honor to have known him for over 60 years. May God ease your pain. With love, Chel
FROM THE FAMILY
Henry & Matilda Leinweber & their children, early 1960's; Paul kneeling in front in checked shirt
FROM THE FAMILY
Esther, Paul and Elsie 1928
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul High School Graduation 1942
FROM THE FAMILY
Char and Paul Wedding Picture, March 4, 1945
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul with fish he caught, 1950's
FROM THE FAMILY
Judy, Paul & Jan at Paul's PSCO Retirement Reception March, 1986
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul Deep Sea Fishing in San Diego, CA. He won the prize for the first as well as the biggest fish!
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul showing his grand catch!
FROM THE FAMILY
Mille and Fritz, Char and Paul's beloved schnauzers
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul cooking at yearly Easter party for neighborhood children
FROM THE FAMILY
Char and Paul at a wedding reception
FROM THE FAMILY
Char and Paul 50th Anniversary
FROM THE FAMILY
Char and Paul at Paul's 80th birthday party February, 2004 (Leap Year Birthday)
FROM THE FAMILY
Char and Paul still in love after 59 years, 2004
FROM THE FAMILY
80th birthday.Pat Newman,George Leinweber,Russ White,Richard & Ann Leinweber,Char & Paul
FROM THE FAMILY
Char and Paul in her room at Balfour, January, 2011
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul at Butterfly Release to celebrate Char's life at Mountain View Memorial Park, August, 2012
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul, La Rae and Sarah at Halloween, 2012
FROM THE FAMILY
Koko - Paul's faithful canine neighbor and beloved companion
FROM THE FAMILY
Randy and Nikki Bailey shoveling snow for Paul, Winter 2012
FROM THE FAMILY
Randy Bailey and Paul - Randy delivering and unloading firewood for Paul
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul with "grandchildren" Suzy and Smokey
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul's 89th birthday February 29, 2013
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul and his 89th birthday cake February 29, 2013
FROM THE FAMILY
Paul, 1995
IN THE CARE OF