Paul V. Baumgarth

Kalona-Paul Verlin Baumgarth, 71, of Wellman, Iowa died peacefully on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at Parkview Manor.

He was born April 21,1953 in Alton, IL, son of Verlin and Elva Baumgarth. Born into a military family, he moved many times throughout his childhood. He was a 1972 graduate of Bettendorf High School and later received his BA in Engineering from the University of Iowa. He remained in Iowa City, IA for some time after college before moving to Oskaloosa, IA and later to Inglis, FL. 

Paul was a devoted Christian and loved telling anyone he could about Jesus. He always established himself quickly within a church family during each stage of his life, and he prayed for his family and friends everyday. Paul loved to fish and instilled this love of fishing in his son and grandson, however a boat ride with him could prove to be risky. He had a sweet tooth for all desserts and enjoyed coffee with his cream. Paul was handy with his Buicks and home improvement projects, and was convinced duct tape could fix anything. He had a soft spot for animals and owned many special pets during his life. Family gatherings to Wisconsin and playing Euchre were sure to make him smile. 

Paul was most proud of his role as a father and grandfather, and loved supporting his kids and grandkids in their activities. Playing the role of Dad and “Coach” to Eric and his teammates brought Paul so much joy, and he lived to retell these favorite memories to anyone who would listen. He loved catching a Hawkeye game on TV and watching the St. Louis Cardinals win, but none of those compared to the games his son or grandkids played in.

He is survived by his son Eric (Kristin) Baumgarth of North Liberty, IA, and daughter Heather (Shane) DeBord of Coralville, IA, 3 grandchildren; Miles and Olive Baumgarth and Haleigh Wade, and 2 great grandchildren; Maverick and Crew Wade, 3 sisters; Ida (John) Swenson, Sue Williams Baumgarth, and Rita (Jim) Luder of Dallas City, IL ; and nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and a niece, Laura Swenson. 

A small graveside service is planned for August 24 at Black Hawk Cemetery in Sauk Co, WI at 2:00 with Rev. Jim Luder officiating. Memorials can be directed to his family to be distributed to Paul’s charitable interests at a later date.