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Paul Zeltner Obituary
October 11, 1925 – May 26, 2018
Paul passed away in his Rancho Bernardo home at the age of 92 on Saturday, May 26th. Paul was born in Philadelphia and joined the Navy in 1942. He was married to Patricia Higgins Zeltner for 61 years. He graduated from CA State University Long Beach with a Bachelor's degree in Vocational Education. Paul retired from the LA County Sheriff's Dept. after 26 years of service. After retirement Paul became involved in politics. He served on the Lakewood City Council for 9 years including serving as Mayor for 2 terms. He was the Founder and Chairman of the CA Conference on Drug Paraphernalia which led to State Legislation. Paul was elected to the CA State Assembly for the 54th District. He was then appointed by Governor Deukmejian as Special Assistant Law Enforcement & Public Safety Liaison for the office of the Governor. He was a Lecturer and Panelist for social, civic and professional organizations. Paul is a member of St Michaels Parish and was active in the Knights of Columbus as a 4th degree.
Paul is survived by his daughter, Charlene (James) Cummings; his son, Paul (Dixie) Zeltner; 9 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; and his daughter, Christine.
Special thanks to his wonderful caretakers, Olga and Jordan Good and Jackie Payne whom he shared a special bond with. Family, friends and those whose lives have been touched by Paul are invited to a Mass at St. Michael's Parish, 15546 Pomerado Rd, Poway, on Saturday, June 16th at 11am.
Paul's interment with his wife Patricia will be in Miramar National Cemetery at a later date. Please sign the guest book at www.presstelegram.com/obits.
10 Entries
Jane
July 6, 2020
He was a Great Captain at the Lakewood Sheriff's Department.
Damaris
May 29, 2019
My sincere condolences to the family . May the wonderful memories of your loved one sustain you until God's promises are fulfilled . ( John 6 : 40 )
Helen maxwell
June 13, 2018
I am the widow of Michael D. Maxwell, who was with LASD for years, later was at the supervisory level in federal law enforcement. I read the write up on Mr. Zeltner on Moon's web site for LASD. I was awed, what a worthy life. Wonderful. Helen Maxwell
June 12, 2018
Thanks for making Lakewood a better place.
Dave Wilson
Long Beach
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Leo Norton
June 11, 2018
Paul was a long time member of the Sheriffs' Relief Association of Los Angeles County and in good standing with us. On behalf of all the members of SRA, our condolences to his family and friends.
Richard Harpham
June 11, 2018
I would like to offer condolences from the men and women of Lakewood Sheriff's Station to the family and friends of Captain Paul Zeltner. We are truly in debt to Paul for his many years of public service. He will always be a part of the Lakewood Station Family.
He is in our thoughts and prayers,
Richard J. Harpham, Captain
Lakewood Sheriff's Station
Bill Richardson
June 10, 2018
Paul was my Captain at the Lakewood Sheriff's Station. He was always a warm and welcoming man who was imbued with honesty and integrity in everything he did.
June 10, 2018
A man of great personal integrity who was an outstanding credit to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Gar Austin, Chief. Ret. LASD.
john Hammargren
June 10, 2018
I worked for Paul as his Op Lieutenant at Lakewood Station. He was mope than a boss. He was a friend and mentor. I did things socialy with both Pat and Paul. He was everything you could ask for. They have been often on my mind snd always in my heart.
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