John Paul

July 20, 1956 - May 24, 2025

John S Paul, gifted musician, avid fly fisherman and friend to all, died Saturday May 24 surrounded and supported by the love, stories and farewells of family and friends.

John had a beautiful singing voice. He played drums, upright bass and even the washtub bass with style and finesse. His venerable music career started with his childhood band, The CheckMates. At age ten, he played his first gig with his brother Mike Paul and lifelong friend, Steve Heironymus. In Jr. High the brothers formed the band Oedipus, and throughout high school played dozens of school proms, parties, The Grove and many other venues.

In 1975 Sandy Creek Pickers was formed with band members John, Mike, Steve Heironymus and Kevin Avey. The "Pickers" toured much of the US and enjoyed considerable success at bluegrass festivals. John loved to recall the time Bill Monroe entered and danced on the stage as the Sandy Creek Pickers played at the Rocky Mountain Bluegrass Festival.

When the "Pickers" stopped touring, John picked up his drumsticks and began playing with the Sandy Creek Band at the PlaMor Ballroom every Sunday for almost 30 years. During this period, along with Steve and Mike, the Sandy Creek Band members also included Don Robertus, Jan "Jano" Madsen, Lou Estrella, Gayle Adams and Alan Dasenbrock.

Since 2008, John and Mike have gone back to their bluegrass roots, playing with brother Gary Paul, Dave Blakeslee, and John and Jason Shaw in the Sandy Creek Bluegrass Band.

Music and performing was so much a part of John that he also found time to perform with Jan Madsen and Dan and Dave Mlnarik in the band known as Spare Change.

John made us laugh, and peppered conversations with random and precise dialogue from films and TV; he had an uncanny ability to imitate voices, whether it was Bob Seager, John Fogerty, Aunt Bee or his own friends. John's easy-going nature and acceptance of others made everyone feel welcome and at ease. Surely, he will be waiting for us all atop "Good Ole Rocky Top", where we can raise a glass together again.

John lost his mother Joan 5 years ago and youngest brother Randy last fall. He is survived by his partner Steph Eischeid; his father, Lyle Roger Paul; brothers, Mike (Jody) and Gary (Dianne); and nephews, Jason and Brian.

A celebration of John's life will take place later this summer.

Lincoln Family Funeral Care

(402) 464-6400

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lincoln Journal Star on Jun. 1, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for John Paul

Sponsored by Lincoln Family Funeral Care - Lincoln.

7 Entries

Troy Stubbs

June 15, 2025

I just found out from my sister about are cousin John,, I had no idea he was sick,, we just saw him last year at the hospital when he was visiting he dad,, my mother was sick at the same time johns dad was there. I didn't get to see my cousins to much because I live in Washington. I am devastated to hear this and sad. I will miss you John . My condolences to the family. Had no idea, nobody said anything. Love ya John.

Linda Cass

June 5, 2025

To John's family. Please accept my deepest sincere sympathy. I will always remember John. He had such a beautiful voice. The Pickers gave joy and pleasure to so many people. What a gift he gave.

Lin Gowin Hejl

June 3, 2025

So sad to hear the news of John passing. In the 1980s, I first heard the Sandy Creek Band down at Little Bo's. I've been a fan since then. John had such a great tenor voice.
He surely will be missed. RIP my friend.

Marjorie Hart Schwabauer

June 2, 2025

My deepest sympathy to his family. A great musician.

Julie (Cass) Shepherd

June 2, 2025

Heartfelt condolences from the entire Cass family. Words don't do justice when a great guy like John leaves this world, but the the outpouring of great memories from all who loved him will.

Barry Conover

June 1, 2025

I've known John since Junior High and High School and followed his bands, especially as a fellow drummer. As his obituary states, his uncanny ability to mimic the voices of famous musicians was spot on! Off and on John and I would run into each other over the years. I can still visualize him playing bass in Winfield Kansas at the Bluegrass Festival. He was a fantastic musician and a very good human being. He will be missed! My condolences to the family and friends who loved him.

Tom Thrasher old neighbors

June 1, 2025

Oh man, I'm so sorry to learn of John's passing! We were from the same neighborhood and used to hear the boys rehearsing back in the day. I SO admired his and their talents. Wish we could have been friends. Just ran in different circles. But had nothing but the highest regard and utmost respect for John and the boys. Heaven has gained another fantastic player. Rest in heavenly peace John. Hope to see you up yonder after while, and get to know you better. Say hi to my brother, Wayne Thrasher when you see him.
Heartfelt condolences to all who mourn his passing, he will be sorely missed.

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