Dr. Paul Edward "Poppy" Kudelko

1942 - 2025

Kudelko, Dr. Paul Edward "Poppy"

passed away peacefully on February 12, 2025, surrounded by the loving family that meant the world to him. He was 82 years young. He touched the lives of so many to whom he offered healing, generosity, and friendship. He will always be remembered as a true gentleman with a gracious spirit and a kind word for everyone. He was the owner of a golden heart, with an incorruptible character, enviable blue eyes and a great head of hair. Paul was loving and devoted to his wife of 60 years, Deborah, whose happiness was his goal above all else. He was the proud father of Paul II (Marie), Marc (Lee Ann) and Nicole (Dan); and grandfather to Caroline, Danny, Ellie, Kate, Madeline, Lilly, Graham and Carson. He is survived by his sister, Delores Germond, and his brother, Robert. He was preceded in death by his brother, David, and his parents, Helen and Paul. Paul was born in Sharon, PA on April 6,1942. He was successful in his every endeavor. His basketball career in his youth was always a source of pride. Paul was the point guard on back-to-back state championship teams at Farrell High School. He went on to play college basketball on a full scholarship at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA, advancing to the NIT semifinals at Madison Square Garden. His Catholic faith was a cornerstone in his life, as was his patriotism. Paul chose a career in medicine, becoming a respected Cardiologist in Clearwater, Florida. He trained thousands of future physicians as he helped build one of the largest Osteopathic Internal Medicine training programs in the country during his time. He ascended to the highest political levels of his profession, by serving as the national president of the American College of Osteopathic Internists. Every Christmas, his office would be billowing over with gifts from appreciative patients, past and present. It is no understatement to say he was beloved. His wisdom was not only sought by colleagues, but by his children. He dedicated his life to ensuring his family was as strong as the hearts he so diligently cared for. He had a figurative jar full of -isms that brought laughter to his family without fail. His daily emoji-filled texts will go silent now, but his voice will echo loudly their memories. In lieu of flowers, please perform an act of charity in your community; or, please consider a donation to Suncoast Hospice Foundation, 5771 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33760. Services will be held on February 22, 2025 at 1 pm, at St. Jerome's Catholic Church, 10895 Hamlin Blvd., Largo, FL 33774.

Serenity Funeral Home

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