Donald Paauw

1926 - 2013

Donald Jack Paauw
March 10, 1926 - February 5, 2013
Donald Jack Paauw, age 86, of Ripon, formerly long-time resident of Lafayette, on Tuesday, February 5, 2013 passed into the presence of the Savior to whom he had dedicated his life. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Edna Kamps Paauw; his brothers and sisters, Douglas (Kaye) Paauw, Robert (Luella) Paauw, Elsie Kok, Wilma Paauw, Trudy Kamps, Nell (Hank) Stuit, Adeline (Don) Schaapman; his children, Don (Winnie) Paauw, Jim (Liz) Paauw, Sheri (Dave) Tweddale, Joan (Steve) Brussee; eleven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. After a distinguished career as a surgeon in Vallejo, which included a number of overseas medical mission trips, Don "retired" at the age of 62 to, over the next seven years, more fully pursue his dedication to serve Christ in numerous surgical opportunities in Africa, the south Pacific, India, and other places. Throughout his life, and especially later he was an avid reader, building up a substantial library of books, including a large number of theological books that reflected his love of the study of Scripture. He served many terms as a church officer as well as a school board member of the Christian school he helped found. He was a strong supporter in the early years of his beloved Westminster Seminary California and went on to serve her as a Board member for 18 years. His enduring Biblically-based marriage to Edna stands as a godly example for all of his children and grandchildren, to whom he was particularly devoted. He loved to spend time with them in outdoor activities, particularly skiing, waterskiing, fishing, and backpacking, as well as summers working on his "tree farm". In every role in which he served—healer, leader, scholar, farmer, athlete, husband, father, grandfather—he strove to be Christlike and give glory to his Savior. Contributions in his memory may be made to Westminster Seminary California, Escondido, California.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 14, 2013, from 2:00-5:00 PM at Deegan Ripon Memorial Chapel.  A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, Feb. 15 at 10:00 AM at Ripon Cemetery followed by an 11:00 AM Memorial Service at Zion United Christian Reformed Church.  For condolences to the family, please visit their website at www.deeganfuneralchapels.com.
 
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