PAUL STEVEN DEMSHUR, 73, of Springfield, VA, a highly decorated Army officer dedicated to his country and his family, passed away on Tuesday, June 28, 2022, at Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, VA. He will be honored this month as a Pioneer by the National Reconnaissance Office for his innovative contributions to the advancement and legacy of national reconnaissance.
Paul loved the outdoors and could be found many weekends hiking a section of the Appalachian Trail or Shenandoah Mountains. Paul combined his love of the outdoors and his family by leading both Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops and coaching soccer for many years.
Paul was born in Sewickley, PA to Anne and Paul P. Demshur on September 30, 1948. He attended primary school in Aliquippa, PA. He married Jean Aanensen on April 10, 1977, in El Paso, TX and celebrated 45 years of marriage prior to his passing. Paul earned a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University and master’s degree from University of Texas El Paso.
Paul served on full time active duty in the United States Army from 1970 until his retirement at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 1991. During his 50 years of experience as an electrical engineer in military operations, 40 were in direct support of the National Reconnaissance Office, an intelligence agency of the US Department of Defense.
Paul’s military accomplishments also included Army Ranger training and earning recognition for successful completion of airborne training. He received several decorations, including a National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corp Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal, as well a ribbon for Army Overseas Service while stationed in Munich, Germany. Paul is a recipient of the NRO Jimmie D. Hill Award.
Paul is preceded in death by his parents, Anne and Paul P. Demshur, and son, William Zachary Demshur and faithful canine companions Valentine and Biscuit.
Paul is survived by his wife, Jean, his son Paul and daughter-in-law Sally, daughter Jennifer and son-in-law Matthew, daughter Lesley, sisters Suzi and Carol, brother David, and grandchildren Sydney, Maya, Abby, Brooke, and Grant and faithful canine companion Sheba.
Visitation will be Friday, July 15, 2022, from 10:00am-11:00am at Demaine Funeral Home of Springfield, VA.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 15, 2022, at 12:00pm at Saint Bernadette Catholic Church in Springfield, VA. Arrangements are by Demaine Funeral Home of Springfield, VA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) or the Wounded Warrior Project.
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