Paul Geis

Paul Geis
1953 - 2019
Paul Geis, 66, died Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2019 of what is suspected to be a Pulmonary Embolism. He was born in Houston, Texas and graduated from St. John's, where he still holds the record for the mile in 4:12.0. He began his college education at Rice University but transferred to the University of Oregon his Sophomore year to further pursue his running career under Coach Bill Dellinger. His running accolades include being a part of the 1974 NCAA Champion Cross Country Team with Oregon, winning the 1974 NCAA 5000-meter title, and going on to become a 1976 5000-meter Olympic Finalist in Montreal. He continued his running career after college with Athletics West and was coached by Bill Bowerman. His running career is known for his rivalry with Steve Prefontaine. His best performances include the mile in 3:58.0 (1973); 2 miles in 8:21.8 (1976); 5000 meters in 13:23.38 (1974); 10000 meters in 28:06.62 (1980).
Paul graduated with an undergraduate degree from the University of Oregon, followed by his MBA from Stanford and had a successful career in finance. He spent 31 years in Oregon before returning to Texas. After retirement, he split his time between Oregon and Texas.
Paul had a big heart and was known for his deep love for the Oregon Ducks and cigars, his gregarious, larger than life spirit, his love for all things Costco and his avoidance of following the rules. He loved a good adventure but never missed his afternoon nap. He was a proud Grandpa and enjoyed doting on his grandchildren, Hazel (6), Memphis (3) and Zion (1). In his later years, he found a deep love for golf and holds two holes-in-ones at Powell Butte's Brasada Canyons Course on hole 12. He loved learning about history and was often found with a good WWII book in his hand. He was both witty and charming, able to start a conversation with anyone. He was both generous and caring, and competitive and stubborn.
Paul is survived by his fiance, Patricia Green, who he affectionately named PG squared; his children, Geoff Geis, Catie Geis, Blake Geis, Emilie Hinds; his son-in-law, Mark Hinds; and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Geis; his grandchildren, Hazel, Memphis and Zion. He was preceded in death by his parents, Duane and Lois Geis; and his brother, Greg Geis.
There will be two memorials, one in Houston and one in Powell Butte, Ore.
Friends are invited to a visitation with the family from 10 - 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston. The funeral will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 11 a.m., also held in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons. Reception to follow.
Friends are invited to a memorial for Paul at 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, at Brasada Ranch, 16986 S.W. Brasada Ranch Rd., Powell Butte, OR 97753. The service will be at The Barn with a reception to follow.
Please sign the online guest book at www.oregonlive.com/obits