Paul Richard Largen

In Memoriam

Paul Richard Largen, born November 8th, 1972 in Palos Heights, Ill passed away with his family and friends by his side on February 6th, 2026 in Antioch, CA at the age of 53 after an abrupt, valiant fight against pancreatic cancer.

Paul was the grandest of friends, devoted son, protector, a man of honor, musician, comedian, world-class mechanic, a true romantic and one of the most noblest of souls. Known for his loyalty and larger-than-life spirit, Paul left a lasting impact on everyone who was lucky enough to know him. He was truly rare and one of a kind.

Paul and his family moved to Orinda, CA in 1978 and graduated from Miramonte High School. There he played football, rocked in bands and built friendships that lasted a lifetime. Paul loved working with his father in the garage and was curious how things worked so would take them apart and rebuild them. This ability led him to Universal Technical Institute in Phoenix, AZ to complete his training to be an auto mechanic.

For decades, Paul dedicated himself to his work at Walnut Creek Automotive, earning a reputation for honesty, precision, and integrity. He believed in doing things the right way and never left the day with a job unfinished.

Outside of the garage, his true passion was for music, inspired by his Aunt Beth. He taught himself to play the drums and guitar at a young age. He was highly skilled at designing, rebuilding and wiring guitars. He played music with fierce intensity, it was his release, his essence, and a reflection of his bold, strong spirit.

Paul loved to laugh. He was quick-witted with a joke and was always the life of the party. With a keen ability to do the worm at any wedding, he commanded a room and you were drawn to him.

Paul loved animals and they were an important part of his life. His dog Tattoo was his cherished best friend.

Paul treasured all of his friendships new and old and considered them family. To Paul, his friends were life, and he made sure those around him felt valued, supported, and loved. Paul had a unique ability to bring people together from all walks of life creating a lasting tapestry of friendship. His dear friends rushed to his bedside to be with him one last time.

Paul shared a deep love with his partner Denise. Their love story is one for the ages and they sparkled together. Their relationship was built on trust, devotion, laughter, music, and steadfast commitment to each other.

Paul’s generosity and positive attitude affected all who met him. He had the unique ability to see only the good in people. He laughed with you, he taught you, he saved you, he rocked with you…he loved you. He helped neighbors without hesitation, offered kindness freely, and gave without expecting anything in return. He held a profound respect for veterans, always walking up to them, shaking their hand and looking them boldly in the eye, “thank you sir for your service.” He would buy them a drink, a coffee, sometimes their groceries.

This is no meager man we reflect on today. He lived life to the fullest, defiant, volume cranked to the max, transcending darkness into love and light. A gentle soul who was pure joy mixed with a bit of Ozzy. Paul will be deeply missed by his family, friends, co-workers, customers, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. Though the engines he repaired may one day fall silent, the music he played and the love he gave will endure.

Please join us for Paul’s Celebration of Life May 16th, 2026 at Vinnie’s in Concord, 2-7pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the following organizations:

K9s For Warriors - Service Dogs for Veterans with PTSD
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano