Paul Koelzer

Paul Koelzer, 86 of Hughson went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, November 25th. Paul was born in Bellflower, California and was the third of six children of Charles and Margaret Koelzer. The Koelzer family moved to Turlock in 1934 where Paul attended Turlock High School, graduating with the class of 1941. After high school Paul briefly attended Modesto Junior College before enlisting in the Navy. Paul was very proud of his US Navy service with the Seventh Fleet from late 1942 through 1945 in the southern and western Pacific during WWII. Paul was an Aviation Machinist Mate aboard the USS Tangier AV8, a seaplane tender and mother ship to a squadron of Black Cat PBY Night Raiders. After discharge from the Navy, Paul returned to Turlock where he met Berniece (Bee) Lingerfelt of Delhi, the love of his life and the couple was married in1946. In 1948 the couple moved to Modesto where Paul began working for Pacific Telephone. Paul retired from the telephone company after 32 years and became a full time almond rancher in Hughson. Paul was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved to work with his hands and being outdoors. After retiring from ranching, Paul and Bee purchased a motor home and traveled extensively throughout the United States. Paul always looked forward to seeing his Navy buddies at ship reunions. Paul is survived by his wife of 63 years, Berniece of Hughson; son Steven Koelzer and wife Lois of Modesto, daughter Marlene Taulier and husband Michael of Vancouver WA, grandsons Jason Koelzer of Modesto, Erik Koelzer of San Juan Capistrano, Michael Taulier of Vancouver WA, and granddaughter Jenny Smith and husband Tim of Modesto. Paul is also survived by sisters Rose Martin of Turlock, Mary Haring and husband Jerry of San Diego, and Pauline Baker of Turlock. Paul was preceded in death by sisters Katherine Sandefur and Barbara Haug. Paul will be greatly missed. A memorial service to celebrate Pauls life will be held 11:00 am, Wednesday December 2nd at Turlock Funeral Home Chapel, 425 North Soderquist Road, Turlock CA. Interment will follow at Turlock Memorial Park.

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Paul Koelzer

June 22, 1923 - November 25, 2009