Paul Bayer Obituary
Paul, a native of Buffalo, New York, was a graduate of Canisius High School and College. After completing a master's in German at the University of Kentucky, he began his twenty year career in the Army, during which he was a member of the 101st Airborne Division and worked in military intelligence. After retiring from the Army, he joined the State Department, working in embassy site security, a career which sent him from sub-Saharan Africa to Scandinavia. Upon his second retirement, he often spent his time engrossed in history books, especially those chronicling the Civil War. Unsurprisingly, Paul seized the opportunity to volunteer at the National Museum of the U.S. Army as soon as it opened. He took immense enjoyment from sharing his love of history with visitors young and old.
Relatives and friends may call Jefferson Funeral Chapel, 5755 Castlewellan Drive, Alexandria, Virginia 22315 on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 from 3-7PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 18825 Fuller Heights Road, Triangle, Virginia 22172 on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 11AM. Interment Quantico National Cemetery
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Paul's honor may be made to The National Museum of the U.S. Army.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
Paul T Mikolashek
February 5, 2026
Paul was one of the first people I met at our docent training at the National Museum of the US Army. We seemed to have an instant bond since we shared first names. As time went on I also became impressed with his love and knowledge of Army history. His enthusiasm and creativity in telling the Army story was enhanced by his sense of humor as he engaged visitors. He thoroughly enjoyed leading people through the museum and no doubt encouraged others to learn Army history. He was a great Soldier, brilliant and dedicated. May he rest in eternal peace.
Jim Bald
January 3, 2026
Paul´s smile and friendly greetings are things I shall never forget. It was a pleasure to share thoughts and information about the museum activities, and how our Jesuit educations made us so smart . Yes, his sense of humor is also something I shall always remember.
Bernadette Martinucci
December 24, 2025
Paul & Kathy circa May 1993
Keith June
December 19, 2025
Absolutely loved Paul! Thoroughly enjoyed his passion for history and the Army which was consistently demonstrated in his great tours! Truly one of the best! Delighted, humbled and honored I had the opportunity to serve with one of the best! Peace my friend! Your great enthusiasm, passion and love of the National museum of the US Army will be missed!
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George Zahaczewsky
December 19, 2025
I only knew Paul for a short period of time while he and I were both volunteering at the National Museum of the United States Army. Although only a short period I sincerely hope that he considered me a friend, as well as a fellow Volunteer. From the very beginning, he was an extremely enthusiastic and outgoing representative for the Museum. He very seldom passed on an opportunity to welcome visitors to the Museum. He seemed to be very focused and drawn to younger visitors, often challenging them to explore the history of a particular Museum gallery, which was, more often than not, the Civil War era. I distinctly recall witnessing his certification as a Tour Docent when he regaled his examiner with his knowledge of Joshua Chamberlain. His enthusiasm and subject matter knowledge will be sorely missed. God bless you Paul, as well as your family and friends. Rest in Peace, my friend.
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5755 Castlewellan Dr., Alexandria, VA 22315
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