Paul Motsinger

On January 25, 2026 Paul Motsinger passed away after an extended illness. He was 69 years old, a family man of impeccable integrity, a horticulturist, builder, teacher, and mentor to at-risk youth. The son of a GI father and his Japanese bride, Paul had an easy-going modesty and a bright sparkle in his eye. Born in the suburbs outside of Chicago, Paul lived all over the country as a young boy. As he described it, he would attend at least two schools per grade. Being the new kid over and over, in a post-WWII America as a young mixed race child, was not easy. The experience taught him how to win a schoolyard fight, make friends quickly, and forgive those acting from their baser natures.

Paul met the love of his life, and wife of 40 years Maria, in Kathmandu when he was in the Peace Corps. He always said that it was the intelligence and beauty of her face that captured him immediately. The backdrop of their early courtship was the snowy peaks of the Himalayan mountains. The family that they created together was the center of his world.

He faced his illness with the dignity and courage that were his nature. Paul was an extraordinary friend, devoted husband, father, and truly good man. His passing leaves a void for Maria and her children, Gabriel and Claire, and those who knew him will all miss him greatly.