He was one of five children and enjoyed his childhood growing up on a farm, playing basketball and spending time with his friends. He enlisted in the Air Force in 1950 during the Korean War and was sent to Germany. It was there he met his wife, Elisabeth “Betsy” Burns. She called him Johnny her entire life because that was the alias he gave her.
Paul left the Air Force in 1954 and married Betsy in 1955 when she came to the United States.
Paul began working at McDonnell Douglas and led a team in quality control before retiring in 1991.
He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, woodworking and animals. He was a generous man and we are all better for having him in our lives.
He is survived by his daughter, Lisa Botz (John) his son John Michael Burns (Mary Anne) and his grandchildren, Ryan Botz, Cameron Burns, Hunter Burns, Julia Botz and Chandler Burns (Kelsey) who will all dearly miss him. Paul was the last member of his original family, as he was predeceased by his parents, four siblings and his loving wife Betsy.
While he had several names - Paul, Johnny, Dad or Bopaw - he was one of a kind.
Visitation will be held on July 23, 2020 at 4:00-8:00 pm at Heiligtag-Lang-Fendler Funeral Home, 1081 Jeffco Blvd, Arnold, Missouri. Funeral Service will be held on July 24, 2020 at 10:30 am at Heiligtag-Lang-Fendler Funeral Home The Commital Service will be held on July 24, 2020 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, 2900 Sheridan, Jefferson Barracks, Missouri.
