Paul Grider

Paul Grider

Jan 18, 2026

Auburn - Paul Douglas Grider, 65, of Auburn, IN, passed away unexpectedly on January 18, 2026.

Paul was born on September 8, 1960, in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Shirley (Cole) Fore and John Gilbert Grider. Paul was a devoted son, husband, brother, father, grandfather, cousin, and friend.

He attended Indiana University–Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW), where he completed his college education while working at Putt Putt Fort Wayne, where he met his wife of 40 years, Denise. They married on June 29th, 1985, at Big Run Church in Butler, IN. Together, they raised 3 beautiful children who were Paul's pride and joy. The two of them spent countless hours together at soccer games, gymnastics meets, and show choir invitationals supporting their children's endless hobbies and activities. Paul also enjoyed driving across the country with his family to Florida and Colorado every year.

Paul spent many years working as an accountant, where he was known for his dedication, reliability, and strong work ethic. His accounting career began at the Auburn Foundry, continued at Waterfield Mortgage, and ended at Metal Technologies, where he retired this past August after over 20 years of service there.

Outside of work, Paul found great happiness outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, golfing, biking, and enjoyed spending time outside working in the garden with Denise or making bonfires. An avid sports fan, he proudly supported both Indiana University and Purdue University, following their teams with enthusiasm and friendly rivalry with his children. He was involved in local bowling and golf leagues, as well as Dekalb County Junior Achievement. Above all else, Paul's greatest pride was being a husband, a dad, and a "Papa" to his grandchildren, a role he cherished deeply.

Paul valued time spent with his family and many friends, and will be remembered for his steady presence, quiet humor, and deep love for those closest to him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Denise (Jennings) Grider; his sister, Nancy (John) Chromy; his children, Ashley Grider, Megan (Colin) Smith, and Jonathan (Candice) Grider; and his cherished grandchildren, Kassel, Julian, and Reese. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and his step father, Eldon Fore.

Services will be 11 AM Saturday January 24, 2026 at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 Center Street, Auburn, IN 46706. Private family burial will follow the service in Farnham Cemetery, Edgerton, OH. Calling is Friday from 3 to 7 PM at the funeral home and also 1 hour prior to the service Saturday from 10 to 11 AM. Memorials can be given in memory of Paul to the DeKalb County Community Foundation, c/o Whittney J Pefferkorn Memorial Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 111, Auburn IN 46706, or online in the foundation's web page. To send condolences to the family visit www.fellerandclark.com.