Paul Wollenberg

New Lexington With profound sadness yet with hearts full of gratitude for a beautiful life lived to the fullest, we announce the unexpected passing of our baby brother, Paul Wollenberg. On Friday, Jan. 26, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family, Paul peacefully departed this world the way he lived his life, on his own terms, at The Pickering House in Lancaster.

Born on Sept. 24, 1969 in Zanesville, Paul was the last of the nine P's born to Bill and Shirley Wollenberg. Our family would like to take a moment to reflect on the numerous ways in which Paul has influenced our lives and the lives of those around him, but especially the many athletes and students he coached and taught over the years.

A devoted Catholic by faith who trusted in the Lord and was at peace in the end for he knew he was going to be with his Heavenly Father, he was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church. Having graduated from St. Rose School in 1983, Paul then attended New Lexington High School, graduating in 1987. Upon graduating from high school, Paul worked at the Perry County Auditor's Office. Paul soon realized his dream of becoming a teacher, so he attended Ohio University earning a bachelor's degree. Some would say that Paul was the ultimate Panther. He was a beloved New Lexington High School varsity football assistant coach for 27 years and was currently a New Lexington Middle School math teacher, where he worked for 19 years. He also took great pride in working the afterschool program. Paul loved being a coach and teacher. Paul was known for the many lessons he taught his players on and off the field and his students in and out of the classroom. He taught them the importance of respect and loyalty and how to be generous and supportive, all traits that Paul also exhibited. He was a true mentor who was able to instill confidence in the young lives he influenced. Paul truly loved working with "his kids." It was his mission in life to encourage his students to work hard and strive to improve so that they would see and feel success in their achievements! Paul was also a dedicated member of the New Lexington Eagles Club and the New Lexington Elks Lodge, where he served as an Exalted Ruler four times. He was currently serving as a trustee at the Elks. Paul could often be found at the Elks hanging out with great friends sharing a laugh over a cold one. Many great memories were made with friends traveling to events for the Lodge. This was just another example of how Paul cared for his community. His friends, and there were so many, will remember him as a fun-loving, outgoing, loyal man who was always up for a good time.

Lovingly referred to as Opie, everyone has at least one good Opie story. His family will remember him as their baby brother, the uncle who was a blast to be around, the one who reminded them to stay kind and live with dignity and grace. He wasn't one to worry about what others thought of him. He was going to tackle life his way. We are comforted to know that Paul's legacy will live on through the countless lives he influenced. We would like to extend our profound thanks to the staff at Fairfield Medical Center, The Pickering House and New Lexington Schools for their loving care of Paul during his illness!

Paul is survived by his wife and best friend, Shelley White Wollenberg; brothers and sisters, Phil (Bobbi) Wollenberg, Phyllis (Henry) Howdyshell, Paula (Tim) O'Hare, Pam (Terry) Postle, Pat (Missy) Wollenberg, Penny (Dave) Murray, Patricia (Andy) Morrison and Peggy Harris; several nieces and nephews; father and mother-in-law, Steve and Judy White; brother-in-laws, Joel (Jessica) White, Eric White and Micah White. In addition to his parents, preceded in death by a niece, Ashton Cannon and a brother-in-law, Scott Harris.

Calling hours will be held from 4-8 p.m. with Elks services at 8 p.m., followed by a Wake Service on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at the New Lexington High School, 2547 Panther Drive, New Lexington, Ohio and from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 31 at the Roberts-Winegardner Funeral Home, 304 Mill St., New Lexington, Ohio. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at Saint Rose Catholic Church, 309 North Main St., New Lexington, Ohio with Father Todd Lehigh as celebrant. Burial will follow in New Lexington Cemetery. A reception and fellowship will follow the burial at the Saint Rose Parish Community Center. Memorial contributions may be made to the Perry County Cancer Alliance, P.O. Box 724, New Lexington, Ohio 43764. Obituary and online register book at www.robertsfuneralhomenewlex.com. Paul Wollenberg