Paul Szopa

Paul was born on March 19, 1945 in Kansas City, MO to MaryBelle (Edwards) Szopa. In 1962, he graduated from Fayette High School then put himself through college. He graduated from Central Methodist University in Fayette with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. On July 5, 1969 he married Kathryn Peterson and they moved to Columbia. Paul worked at the University of Missouri School of Fisheries and Wildlife as a research specialist in commercial photography. Budget cuts gave him an opportunity to continue his passion for taking pictures at the University with the Academic Support Center. The Missouri Academy of Science and the State Historical Society published his articles and photos. After retiring from the University, he enjoyed some time off before going back to work as your helpful neighborhood hardware man at Westlakes.

Besides capturing his love of nature and the outdoors in pictures, he enjoyed target shooting, duck hunting and fishing and making new friends using morse code on his ham radio. Yearly trips to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Minnesota always provided family time with fresh caught fish for dinner, pancakes with blueberries just picked and boating on the lake. His vast knowledge of American History and geography was creatively reflected in his children’s school projects. Always a caring, encouraging and wonderful father.

Paul is survived by his wife Kathy, son Derek (Yasmine), granddaughter Sofiana, grandson Henry, son Stephen (Randi) and daughter Charlene Ervin (John), granddaughter, Alexis. He was preceded in death, by his mother, brother, Ted, and grandparents, Marie and Charles Edwards.

An informal Gathering of Friends will take place from 11 AM until 1 PM on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at Memorial Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior project or charity of your choice

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Szopa family.