Paul Finks

Paul Allan Finks, 77, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, in Raleigh, North Carolina. Born on March 19, 1948, in Omaha, Nebraska, Paul lived a life filled with adventure, service, and love.

Paul’s early years were marked by academic and athletic achievements. After graduating from Lyon's Township High School in LaGrange, Illinois, he earned a scholarship to Denver University, where he excelled in track and completed a business degree. He later pursued an MBA from the University of Missouri, furthering his education and preparing for a successful career.

Paul’s professional journey brought him to North Carolina from Michigan, where he served as Production Control Manager at Schrader/Parker/Hannifin in Wake Forest. When the company relocated out of state, Paul transitioned to a new chapter of his life as a substitute teacher in high schools and at Wake Tech Community College. His adaptability and dedication to lifelong learning left an indelible mark on those he encountered.

Paul’s personal life was equally vibrant. In 1993, he married Marshelle Middleton Finks after meeting through the Raleigh Ski and Outing Club (RSOC), where Paul served as president. Their relationship began during a Habitat for Humanity project and blossomed into decades of shared adventures. Together, they embraced an active lifestyle filled with snow skiing, water skiing, whitewater canoeing, rafting, kayaking, and motorcycling. Their travels took them across the United States and around the globe, collecting memories—and plates—from 40 countries.

A cornerstone of Paul’s legacy was his unwavering commitment to volunteering with Special Olympics North Carolina (SONC). Starting in 1996 as part of the Summer Games Management team, Paul went on to serve as Summer Games Director for 13 years. He also officiated bocce at state and national events and volunteered at Winter Games, particularly in Alpine skiing. In recognition of his extraordinary dedication, Paul received the Jim Long Commitment to Excellence Award in 2018—a testament to his tireless efforts to promote inclusion and joy through sports.

Beyond his public contributions, Paul was deeply cherished by his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of over three decades, Marshelle Middleton Finks; his brother Mark Finks; his twin sister Catherine Finks Gardner; and numerous nieces and nephews who will miss his jokes and antics. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman Preston Finks and Catherine Schweer Finks, as well as his brother Keith Finks.

Paul’s sense of humor and warmth shone brightly in his interactions with family. While once affectionately dubbed “Grumpy Uncle Paul” by younger nieces and nephews for his gruff demeanor during their noisy childhood antics, he later embraced the role of doting uncle with open arms—feeding, holding, and caring for the next generation with a big smile.

Even when faced with the challenges of ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), Paul maintained an optimistic outlook. Reflecting on his diagnosis at age 77—an age far beyond when most are affected—he remarked that he had “already beat it.” This resilience epitomized Paul’s spirit: ever positive and determined to find joy in every moment.

Paul Allan Finks leaves behind a legacy defined by service, adventure, and love. His contributions to the community through Special Olympics North Carolina and his zest for life will continue to inspire all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.