Paul J. Denzer

Paul J. Denzer passed away Friday, February 23, 2024 at Altercare of Bucyrus.   He was born January 15, 1944 in Bucyrus, Ohio to the late David D. and Gladys (Ward) Denzer.  On December 30, 1963 he married Stella Louise Davey, the love of his life, who survives.

He is also survived by his daughters Dawn M. Clark (David) of Monnett, Ohio and Lori G. Denzer & partner, Kellye Pinkleton of Columbus, Ohio as well as three grandchildren, Brent M. Clark, Clint M. Clark, Kaylee M. Clark and two great-grandchildren, Stella Mae and Ellis.

Surviving sisters are Mary J. Stoffer of Marion, Ohio, Ruth A. Brown of Marion and Carol J. Aurand of Bucyrus and half-brother Richard C. Wichterman of Florida.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sister, Ellen Davis and brothers Roger E. Denzer and Ralph Denzer (infant).

Paul retired from the Bucyrus Police Department as detective lieutenant after 25 years of dedicated service.  He worked 8 years as a Crawford County Common Pleas Court Bailiff and 6 years as a Crawford County Sheriff’s Deputy in courthouse security and served 3 years on the Bucyrus Civil Service Commission.  

He attended Bucyrus schools until the family moved to Lebanon, Ohio where he graduated high school and then returned to Bucyrus to start a family and begin his career.  He attended numerous law enforcement classes at the Ohio State Patrol Academy and Ohio Police Officer’s Academy.  He was a life member of the Fraternal Order of Police and past President of F.O.P. Lodge 68 of Bucyrus and belonged to the Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association.  He was an Officer of the Elks Lodge 156 and a member of the Moose 669 and Sons of the American Legion Post 181.  

Paul, aka “Lurch,” adored his wife, deeply loved his daughters and family, and spoiling his cat, Sami, until her passing in October, 2023.  He was a faithful man of God, a servant to the community and a kind neighbor that would lend a helping hand whenever a need existed.  He was a handsome devil in his uniform but equally sharp in suspenders slinging some brews volunteering at the annual Brat fest.  He was happiest among family, friends and his buddies like Pete (Carol) Hart on the force with a Bud in hand and a classic country song or Elvis in the background… or using his own talents to belt out his fave song to sing, Luckenbach Texas.  Whether singing or making a joke, he made people smile.

His wishes were to be cremated with burial at Bethel Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made payable to the Humane Society Serving Crawford County and given through Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Memories and photos can be shared in the guestbook.