Paul Rinker

Paul Rinker, 85, of Bucyrus died Saturday, March 12, 2016 at Altercare of Bucyrus after months of failing health.



He was born in Bucyrus July 31, 1930 to the late Edwin and Florence (Bittikofer) Rinker. Paul graduated with the Bucyrus High School Class of 1948 with whom he enjoyed meeting regularly. He served in the US Army during the Korean War during which he received the Korean Ribbon with three battle stars and the combat infantry badge. He was proud to have served and enjoyed the camaraderie of his “Brothers in Arms,” especially in later years. Paul married the former Edith Denzer on November 28, 1958 and she preceded him in death July 20, 2010.



After serving his country, Paul started work at the Bucyrus Post Office. During his 33 years of employment he held most positions, working his way up to Postmaster which he held for 16 years. During his retirement years, he farmed and spent time with grandchildren, making many wooden toys for them. He enjoyed working outside in his garden and sawing wood. He volunteered for the American Red Cross and was their Volunteer of the Year in 2002. He also volunteered at Bucyrus Community Hospital for nearly 20 years distributing mail at least once a week. As a member of the Crawford County Memorial Day Society, he placed flags on the graves of servicemen in Oakwood Cemetery for many years. He also was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and American Legion Post 181.



Paul is survived by two children, Robert (Karen) Kottyan of Pittsburgh, Pa. and Ann Hughes of Ottawa; five grandchildren, Courtney (Matt) Rubino, Allan (Jen) Kottyan, Mike (Kelsey) Hughes, Matt (Brooke) Hughes, and Bill Hughes (fiancée Becca Stiens); five great grandchildren, Melice and Ryland Rubino, Cooper Kottyan, and Jackson and Beckett Hughes.



In addition to his parents and wife of 51 years, Paul was predeceased by his brother, Robert Rinker.



Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 17 at 12 Noon at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus with Rev. James Barkenquast officiating. Family will receive friends prior to the funeral from 10-Noon. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by the US Army and American Legion Honor Guards.



In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are encouraged to be given to the Humane Society Serving Crawford County or Homecare Matters Hospice through the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared on Paul’s Tribute Wall.