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BORN
1948
DIED
2026
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Craig Pautler Obituary
Craig Thomas Pautler (1/26/1948-1/27/2026)
Craig was born in Lancaster NY and graduated from Depew High School in 1966. He then headed to warmer climate, graduating from Florida Atlantic University and in 1973 began a lifelong tennis career, first with Rockresorts in Puerto Rico, the British Virgin Islands Caneel Bay and Little Dix Bay, until he was tapped for the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii in 1977. He continued his tennis career at such renowned resorts as Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, the Ihilani, Hyatt Regency Waikoloa, Kiahuna Tennis Club and the Phoenician Resort, before returning to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel 2004-2026. He additionally coached High School tennis at Hawaii Preparatory Academy. Craig’s lifelong passion for tennis extended to players of all ages as he encouraged, taught and instilled in others the same passion for the sport. He actively supported youth sports programs on the Big Island including HiPal and AYSO. He is survived by his cherished daughters Michelle Pautler Howard (Brandon) and Megan Pautler Gutnikov (Felix), 5 beloved grandchildren Axton, Alectra, Henry, Isabella and Sage – as well as his brother Ward Pauter (Linda) and treasured nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother Evelyn Rainey Pautler. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to AYSO 403 North Hawaii. Donations may be made through this link: AYSO North Hawaii or by scanning the below QR code. A memorial service for Craig will be held at 10:30am Saturday, February14 at Wendel & Locher Funeral Home 27 Aurora Street, Lancaster NY 14086. A luncheon to follow.
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Memories and Condolences
for Craig Pautler
joan Cimino
March 15, 2026
Omg. we all were together with Nick Bollettietri started in Puerto Rico HawIi etc loved you on our team. What fun , laughter & great memories Joan Cimino
Wayne Barnes
February 17, 2026
I first met Craig in 1985 at the Waterin’ Hole Tennis Club (Phoenix, AZ) and we instantly hit it off. He saw something in me that I hadn’t yet saw in myself and offered me my first Head Pro position (first at the Crescent Hotel followed by The Kiahuna on Kauai).
He was the most amazing mentor a person could ask for and I am so fortunate to have been a friend and colleague for the past 40 years. He was an absolute GIANT in the hospitality tennis industry and I observed first hand the positive impact he made with so many people, young and old throught his long and distinguished career.
Craig’s daughters, Michelle and Megan, were everything to him! He was so proud of them growing up to be the successful professionals, wives and mothers they have become. My love and heart goes out to them both for the loss of their “papa bear”.
Craig is missed dearly, but his legacy will shine brighter than his absence here on the Big Island and at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.
My warmest aloha to the Pautler ‘ohana,
Wayne Barnes
Rana Ropiza
February 14, 2026
Craig was one of my Dad's best friends/brother. He will be missed tremendously. Sending tons of strength and hugs to everyone from the Florida family. Wish we could be there to help comfort. Sincerely, The Ropiza's (Rana, Anthony, Nino and Nia)
Ronald Ardino
February 12, 2026
I grew up with Graig . He will be sorely missed by many From Depew and many from Hawaii! Aloha old friend! ❤
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Jeannette O'Connor
February 11, 2026
I will remember Craig as a great friend and many adventures we shared. My condolences to your family R.I.P.
Glenn and Christine Stutz
February 11, 2026
We first met Craig when our daughter took a group tennis lesson at the Mauna Kea in 2010, and we returned almost every summer after that. He quickly became her “Hawaii coach.” She loved her lessons with Craig—he was wonderful with kids, always making them fun and even handing out candy after each session.
More importantly, Craig truly cared about her as both a person and a player, following her progress through juniors and college tennis. Two summers ago, he even created an unofficial “intern” role for her to hit with his clients. Craig was always fun to spend time with, whether in Scottsdale or in Hawaii.
He will be deeply missed, and we will always be grateful for his friendship and the special bond he formed with our daughter.
Sharon Barten
February 10, 2026
Craig was one of a kind. He will be sorely missed by all. Rest in peace.
February 10, 2026
Craig you were always a great guy and you made high school a blast. You always made all our birthdays and reunions so much fun with your generous nature and always made the effort to be here with your class friends. Will sadly miss you. Bev and Paul Brown.
Joe McCarthy
February 9, 2026
I've known Craig my whole life. Besides being my second cousin once removed, he was a good friend. We grew up in the same neighborhood and our mothers were good friends. Along with his brother, Ward, and Paul Barton we would hang out almost every day while we were growing up.
In adulthood I always enjoyed the times we got together. He was kind, generous, and fun to be around. He always made sure whoever he was with had a good time. He will be missed. Aloha my brother!
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Funeral services provided by:
Wendel and Loecher Funeral Home - Lancaster27 Aurora Street, Lancaster, NY 14086