It is with profound sadness we share the passing of Paul Eslich Jr. Paul died unexpectedly at Lakewood Ranch Hospital on Friday, December 22, 2023.
Paul was born December 7, 1947 in Canton, Ohio to Catherine and Paul Eslich, Sr. He graduated from Cardinal Gibbons High School, Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 1965. He went on to study at Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing.
Paul Eslich was larger than life, in both stature and character. He worked in the automotive industry as a sales representative for over 30 years. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, who shared his love of sports with all. When reflecting on his endeavors and passions, it could be said he was a champion of the underdog in all facets of his life.

Paul’s love of the water was palpable. Many times he would tell the story of seeing the ocean for the first time. It was Christmas Day 1959, his family having driven for hours, moving from Canton, Ohio to Ft. Lauderdale. When he saw the ocean he said he found his own “piece of heaven”. Even when work took him away, he always returned to Florida, his home. Whether it was watching the sunrise or walking the beach for miles, he truly found his happiness.
He was passionate about many things, including his country, coming from a family of Marines. His oldest son has continued a tradition of service with a career in the Navy, rising to heights that were beyond Paul’s dreams, as well as those of Paul’s Marine father, Paul Sr. Paul was infinitely proud of his two other sons as well, one of whom graduated from law school and the other who has become a successful business owner in the roofing industry. Between Erik, Kallan and Ryan, Paul had 5 grandsons and 2 granddaughters. One of his greatest joys these last years was watching them grow and prosper.

His love of adventure and travel (by car) manifested itself in numerous “family road trips”. There wasn’t a state they didn’t visit, or people they didn’t meet – if that wasn’t education enough Paul’s Friday night lectures on everything from history to politics to sports were shared with anyone who would listen. Whether you agreed with him or not, he was convicted in his beliefs. He was a loyal and loving friend, staying connected with those he had known for decades. The stories he shared with all about his escapades in his younger years will be remembered forever.

He touched so many during his 76 years and his presence will be missed dearly. Paul is survived by his wife of 48 years, Paula, sons Erik (Stacy), Kallan and Ryan (Jennifer), stepdaughters Erica and Amy Marshall, grandchildren Zack, Connor, Gunnar, Tyson, Kade, Mckinley and Addison, sister Diana (Tim) Moon and brother John Michael (Nancy).

Paul was predeceased in death by his father, Paul Sr., mother Catherine and sister Cathy Kneller.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at a later date.