He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Diane (Eick) Phelps, a son, Kyle (Lindsay Matz) of West Palm Beach, FL, a daughter, Carrie of Rochester, NY, and a daughter Lindsey (Ryan) Mating of West Palm Beach, FL. Paul was the oldest of six children, and grew up on a family farm in Indian Falls, NY. He is survived by brothers Joel Phelps of Yuba City, CA, Eric (Juliet) Phelps of Corfu, NY, Karl (Tracey) Phelps of Bergen, NY, sister, Hope (Michael) Gault of Hermon, NY, sister-in-law, Diane Phelps of Lockport, NY, step mother, Opal Clemm Phelps of Batavia, NY, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by brother Norman Phelps, Jr. in 2012.
Paul was a graduate of Pembroke High School Class of 1973, and 1975 graduate of Alfred Agriculture and Technology College. He was employed by US Gypsum for 34 years and part time employee at Kreher’s Sunrise Farm in Pembroke, NY.
Paul was a devoted Christian who had a passion for youth and children’s ministry. Over many years Paul served as Sunday school teacher, youth leader, and camp counselor. He currently served as a leader for the Northgate Free Methodist Church Bible Trek Program. Paul was also very involved in his community, serving as a coach for the Akron Youth Soccer league, a stat keeper for Pembroke High School Athletics, and a volunteer for the Genesee County 4-H program. Additionally, Paul offered his time as a member of the Pembroke Town Planning Committee, and Grievance board. Paul touched many lives through his joyful acts of service, willing heart and pledge of kindness towards others.
Paul’s greatest love was spending time with his family, and sharing in his children’s passions. He cherished watching them play in every athletic event, sing in musicals, and show livestock at county and state fairs. Not only did he take pride in being a devoted and loving husband to Diane, but also being his children’s number one supporter. Paul’s life was truly driven by his dedication to God, his beloved wife, children and family. He will be missed by many.
A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday August 14th, 2015 at Northgate Free Methodist Church located at 8160 Bank Street, Batavia, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Phelps family. These memorial contributions will be distributed amongst Paul’s most beloved organizations.
Please share your words of comfort to the Phelps family at www.tomaszewskifh.com or for more information please call Michael at (585)343-7500.
THE FAMILYOF PAUL W. PHELPS IS BEING CARED FOR BY THE MICHAEL S. TOMASZEWSKI FUNERAL & CREMATION CHAPEL, LLC 4120 WEST MAIN STREET ROAD BATAVIA, NEW YORK 14020
