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Memorial Keepers(1)
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Michal Paul
Charles Paul
February 21st, 1955 - December 14th, 2020
February 21st, 1955 - December 14th, 2020
Dad’s Obituary
Charles “Chuck“ Edwin Paul, Jr. died Monday, December 14, 2020. Chuck was born February 21, 1955, to Charles “Charlie“ Edwin Paul and Frances Sargent Paul. He was a graduate of Terry Parker high school and Jacksonville University.
Chuck’s lifelong passion for the outdoors, especially the ocean, began in the Jacksonville beaches as a surfer, snorkeler, fisherman, and sailor. In his 20s, he made his home with his young family on the sloop “Desein“ and later the schooner "Bird of Paradise," which he skippered across the globe. He was an adventurer with a spirit as large as the world he traveled and he shared what he loved with family, friends, and others who dreamed of a life sailing in the South Pacific. He authored the best selling travel guide, “Sailingbird’s Guide to the Kingdom of Tornga” as well as numerous short films and videos.
Chuck lived his last 13 years in Neiafu, Vava’u, Tonga, where he met his wife, Hepisa “Hepi” Tupou Paul. Together they opened Hepi’s Pizza, an island favorite. The same courage that allowed him to embark on this adventurous life characterizes his battle with cancer– he approached it without fear, with great humor, and with concern for the people he loved more than for himself.
Chuck is survived by his parents; wife; daughter, Michal Lauren Paul of Tallahassee, Florida; son David Alexander Paul of Long Beach, California; daughter Liavau Paul of Vava’u, Tonga; grandchildren Greta Lane Paul, Brianna Alexis Paul, and Avery Chase Paul; sister Susan Paul Russo and her husband Mark Albert Russo of Jacksonville Beach, Florida; sister Lisa Paul Hodges and her husband David Button Hodges of Salina, Kansas; and nieces and nephews Joel Edwin Russo, Daniel Mark Russo (Sandra), Laurel Elizabeth Hansen (David); David Burton Hodges Jr., Mary Catherine Hodges; Philip Charles Hodges; cousins Steven, Glenn, and David Grant, and Robin Martin. He was preceded in death by his children’s mother, Laurie Cunningham Paul, and his grandparents- Russell and Etta Paul, and William and Elizabeth Sargent.
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Tributes
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Frankmoran
I still miss you 6years on you were my most charismatic friend. I think I may have failed you as a friend without knowing it, my failing not yours. FM
Frank Moran
He was larger than life and always looked younger than he was. I have 3 children that loved him and his adventurous spirit. I taught him to box thinking it might be too much of a challenge. I was wrong. I took him to a Neil young concert in la and he talked to him like he was expecting him. I loved him as a friend and waited too long to talk, and he left too soon, I feel like a fool.
Stephen Mann
Wow. I met Charles when he bought the schooner that he subsequently named Bird of Paradise, as I was captain for the previous owners. Sailed with him and alongside as he outfitted and prepared for the South Pacific in San Diego. Later, connected again while sailing in Tonga and got a signed copy of his cruising guide for the area. Always a class act and a pleasure to associate with. I only just learned he is gone and the world is less bright without him. R.I.P.
Ted Cote
Charles started out as a client, then we became close friends. He was a visionary, courageous and not afraid to fail. We traveled on business together, sailed together, drank and laughed together. When Charles went through some tough times, he would still give me the shirt off his back if I asked. Our last exchange was in early 2020 and he had invited me to visit Tonga and sent travel tips on how to get there. I regret that I didn't follow through and visit. He told me I would be swimming with humpback whales in crystal clear water. I miss him.
Nancy Iafrate
I was so sad to hear of Charles’ death this past December. I had not seen him in so many years, but he was always a part of my childhood and one of my favorite childhood memories - our 8 year old birthday party. “Chuck’s” birthday was Feb 21 and mine was March 21. Our parents thought it would be fun to surprise us with a joint party. Chuck though it was my surprise party and I thought the party was for him. We were both surprised as we walked into the party together. I am so happy to read all about his wonderful life, his travels, his wife and the children and grandchildren he had. My condolences and love to you all!
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