Paul Jespersen

Paul Jespersen, 82, of Salem, Oregon, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2024, surrounded by family.
Born in 1942 in Ferndale, California, Paul was the son and youngest child of Raymond and Lois Jespersen. After graduating from high school, he moved to Arcata to attend Humboldt State College, where he earned his bachelor's degree. Soon after, Paul joined the U.S. Navy, spending the majority of his service at Naval Station Keflavik in Iceland.
In the summer of 1968, shortly after returning home, Paul attended the wedding of a childhood friend. There, he met Kay Mauney, the groom's cousin, and the two quickly became inseparable. Just six months later, Paul and Kay were married, beginning a loving partnership that would last for 54 years.
The couple settled in Springfield, Oregon, in 1970, where they raised their two children, Kirsten, born in 1971, and Erik, born in 1974. In pursuit of his passion for teaching, Paul went on to earn a Master's degree in Education from the University of Oregon in 1973. He spent the majority of his career as an elementary school teacher in the Eugene School District, making a positive impact on the many students he taught over the years.
After Kay's passing in 2022, Paul moved to Salem, Oregon, to be closer to his son and daughter-in-law, and to enjoy the companionship of a vibrant community of active older adults.
Paul was a man who embraced life with enthusiasm and kindness. He loved to stay active, whether biking for miles or taking long walks, often stopping to chat with neighbors or make new friends along the way. He had a special gift for making everyone feel like a friend. Paul was also an avid golfer, often spending time on the course with family and friends, sharing laughter and good times.
Paul is survived by his children, Kirsten Kincaid (Cedric) and Erik Jespersen (Beth); five grandchildren, Conor Kincaid, McKenna Cunnien, Ian Kincaid, Lauren Mowry, and Mary Jespersen; his sister, Leanne Schuette; and numerous extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.
A memorial service to celebrate Paul's life will be held on Thursday, December 5, at 2:00 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in Salem, Oregon.