William Paul Gaukel

William Paul Gaukel was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on May 19th, 1941 to Helen and Louis Gaukel. He passed to live eternally with the Lord on October 4, 2025. Paul and his older sister Marylou grew up in Galion, Ohio, about an hour north of Columbus. After high school at 19, Paul entered the Air Force where he served honorably for 20 years as an air traffic controller. His distinguished military career included service in Vietnam and stations in Florida, Missouri, Texas, Kansas and lastly, Valdosta, Georgia. He developed lifelong friendships and enjoyed bowling and golf. He met the love of his life, Dolores Ann, in 1974 and they were married in 1976.

After retiring from the Air Force, Paul and Dee moved to Titusville, Florida where Paul continued his career in air traffic control in the private sector. He worked at the Titusville Executive Airport for more than 20 years. He truly loved what he did and was well regarded in his profession.

It was in Titusville that Paul began to fish in his free time - both fresh and saltwater. He ultimately gravitated towards fishing the flats and targeting redfish and trout. It brought him so much joy over the years. Paul also enjoyed going to the gun range. He was an avid sports fan and loved watching all of them. He was particularly interested in football and golf. He loved Jack, but Tiger, not so much. He was a Buckeye for certain, but became a huge Oregon fan, he loved his Ducks.

Paul was proud to have served and a patriotic American. He loved his pets, loved his cats. He also loved and cared for his sons, Brian and Brad and his wife of 48 years Dee.