Obituary of Paul Wilson

Douglas “Paul” Wilson passed away peacefully in his home in San Luis Obispo. Paul was born in Los Angeles and graduated from Manual Arts High School. At age 17 he joined the Navy and served in WWII. On a two-week leave in 1946, he married his “sweetheart,” Marie Ann Keller, who he had met months earlier at a USC photography class. They settled in Whittier, California after the war.

Paul and Marie had five children: Bonnie, Mary, Peggy, John and Julie. Paul had a long career with L.A. County Flood Control as a surveyor. In 1979 he retired and moved the family to the Central Coast. Life did not slow down during retirement. Paul and Marie raised their younger children at their new home in Templeton, eventually living as empty nesters in Paso Robles for many years before making San Luis Obispo their final home.

Paul had a sharp and fertile mind. Even in his very advanced years he was learning and adapting to ever-changing computer and digital technology. His everyday attire included a lanyard of USB sticks hanging from his neck. Paul loved to read, especially spiritual books, but he could not resist a good Louis L’Amour! A prolific writer, he also loved sketching and photography, even working with digital photos. He and Marie enjoyed traveling across the U.S. and abroad. They spent countless hours in the car in search of their next adventure. They explored every nook and cranny of the Central Coast and really loved wild flower season. Becoming grandparents meant more fun and creativity for Paul and Marie. Paul documented adventures with their grandkids in stories, photos and sketches. He and Marie led them on endless activities and they all loved every minute together.

Paul spent most of his retired life volunteering. Every Tuesday for 30 years he could be found in the chapel at the California Men’s Colony mentoring prisoners. He was also passionate about his work at Old Mission San Luis Obispo, spending four days a week digitally cataloging historical artifacts. Paul volunteered at the Amtrak train station providing travelers with local area information. He served as president of the Area Agency on Aging and worked at the polls during many elections on behalf of the Catholic Daughters.

Paul was a devout Catholic who did not fear death because of his deep faith in God. He never missed Mass, weekly Bible study or his daily prayers.

Paul left behind the love of his life, best friend and wife of 77 years, Marie; children Mary, Peggy, John and Julie Wilson; grandchildren Brad, Philip, Paul (Kayde), Jena (Donny), Zachary (Carli), Harrison and Christian; great-grandson Karston. Preceded in death by parents Douglas and Renee Wilson; daughter Yvonne “Bonnie” White. Paul was dearly loved, will be deeply missed and never forgotten. He always signed off, “Hang in there.”

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on April 27 at 10:30am at Nativity of Our Lady Catholic Church, 221 Daly Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (805-544-2357). Burial and Final Blessing immediately afterward at Old Mission Cemetery, 101 Bridge Street, SLO. Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers to Nativity of Our Lady Catholic Community (address above) or Old Mission San Luis Obispo, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.