Paul Seth Allan Speck

Paul Seth Allan Speck, age 55, of Swartz Creek, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026. Visitation will be held from 4:00–7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel. Visitation will resume at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, until the time of the Memorial Service at 12:00 p.m., also at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Road, Swartz Creek.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul’s memory may be made to Hospice House of Shiawassee County or The Salvation Army – Flint Citadel. Those wishing to share condolences may do so by visiting his obituary at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.

Paul was born on December 24, 1970, in Lansing, Michigan, to Douglas and Linda (Gilmour) Speck. He graduated from Swartz Creek High School, Class of 1989. He continued his education at the University of Michigan–Flint, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree, and later received his Master’s Degree in Education from Marygrove College in Detroit.

Paul began his teaching career at Kearsley Middle School before returning to his Dragon roots at Swartz Creek Middle School, where he taught 6th and 8th grade science for nearly 20 years. He was beloved by his students for the fun and energy he brought to his classroom. During his teaching years, he was actively involved in coaching, serving for a time as Head Coach of the Varsity Girls Basketball Team and frequently volunteering with youth Little League baseball.

A true Michigander, Paul loved the outdoors. He spent his boyhood summers fishing and water skiing at the family cottage on Clear Lake near West Branch. As an adult, he continued his love of fishing and cherished many outings in recent years with his Uncle Fred. When he wasn’t holding a fishing pole, he was likely swinging a golf club, often enjoying rounds with his fraternity brothers, with whom he remained close. Paul was a devoted sports fan. He loved the Detroit Tigers and was an avid Michigan State fan, rarely missing a game.

Perhaps Paul’s greatest attribute was his generous heart. He was always willing to help anyone in need and felt especially drawn to the underprivileged. If a student was struggling—inside or outside the classroom—Paul stepped in. He quietly delivered food and other necessities to families and, on many occasions, stood in the gap for those facing hardship. Just weeks ago, he brought soup to a cashier after learning she had not eaten lunch. Paul made a lasting difference in the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Paul is survived by his loving parents, Douglas and Linda Speck; his sister, Jenny (Todd) Herndon; his two sons, Jentry (Kaylee) Speck and Seth Speck; stepchildren, Alex (Breanna) Poppen, Logan (Jaimee) Poppen, Sarah Strauss, Raven Strauss, and Reid Strauss; three grandchildren, Kali Poppen, L.J. Poppen, and Colt Poppen; and three nephews, Matt (Kaeli) Herndon, Andrew Herndon, and Luke Herndon. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous dear friends.

Paul was preceded in death by his grandparents, Oliver and Winifred Speck, and Wally and Lucille Gilmour.