Paul Walter Gottschalk

Paul Walter Gottschalk passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Saturday, May 22nd at Hospice House in Kennewick. Paul was born in Spokane, Washington on April 7, 1924 to Walter and Kathryn Gottschalk. He grew up in Spokane and graduated from Gonzaga with a bachelor degree in Civil Engineering, a masters degree from Utah State and went on to obtain his Professional Engineers License. Dad proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II in a special services role. He became a proficient X-Ray technician for the Army, his main duty was to perform x-ray's on Army recruits at the Army's induction stations in Denver and Seattle.

While attending Gonzaga he met Marie Berg, and they were married at Sacred Heart Church in Spokane on December 27, 1948. He worked for the Army Corps of Engineers at Coulee Dam and they moved to the Tri-Cities in 1952, when he accepted a job with the Atomic Energy Commission. Dad worked for the Department of Energy for 27 years, retiring in 1979. Paul always was noticed for getting the job done and for his inherent desire to be a producer. Following his retirement from DOE, he consulted for ANCO engineers and became involved in Go-karting with his son John. He owned and operated the Tri City Kart Shop from 1977 to 1985 and was instrumental in establishing the go kart track at Horn Rapids ORV Park. He loved the outdoors and gardening and grew the most wonderful tomato plants which he loved to share with family and neighbors. He proudly became a master gardener and passed on his love of gardening to his family. Dad loved the Oregon coast and there are many happy memories of our family vacations at Rockaway.

Dad was one of a kind, who always had the time and patience to help friend or family. Even in the most trying of times, dad maintained his honor, integrity and dignity ~ always with caring and humor. He was the most gracious and generous person we have ever known.

Paul is survived by his children Ann Smet, Gary Judy Gottschalk, Alan Sharon Gottschalk, and John Heidi Gottschalk. He is also survived by grandchildren Jason Southwick, Angie Southwick, Mark and Elaine Gottschalk, and Michelle and Garrett Gottschalk, and great grandchildren, Nathan, Jonathan , Alanna , and Tanner.

He was preceeded in death by his wife Marie, his sister Kathryn Gottschalk and his grandson Andrew Gottschalk.

Dad will be missed by all of those close to him and will remain in our hearts forever.

A memorial Mass will be held on Monday, May 31, 2010 at 11 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church in Richland, with reception to follow immediately at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Hospice House or Christ the King Catholic Church.