Paul Joseph Wardell

Paul Joseph Wardell, age 71, a lifelong resident of Strasburg, died Saturday, October 11, 2014, while in the care of Community Hospice House at New Philadelphia following a period of declining health.

Paul was born at Massillon, Ohio on July 5, 1943 and was adopted by the late Charles and Margaret (Wertz) Wardell.

He was a 1962 graduate of Strasburg-Franklin High School and while in school played the trumpet in the marching and concert bands. He was proud to have been selected as a member of Buckeye Boys State and enjoyed flying twin prop airplanes at Beach City when he was younger.

On January 16, 1964, Paul married the former Merrie VanSickle at Monroe Michigan. For nearly three decades, with his family at his side, Paul operated Wardell’s Restaurant at Strasburg and closed the business in 1989. For a number of years following, he worked for the Stohl family at the former Bag-N-Save Grocery Store, retiring in 2001.

Paul was a member of the Strasburg Lutheran Church and an avid fan of NASCAR and Indy Car racing as well as a fan of the Cleveland Browns. He had a passion for Classical Music but also enjoyed motorcycles and cars. He was a proud owner of a 1972 Harley Davidson motorcycle, which remains in the family, and previously owned a 1962 Red Volkswagen Beetle.

Paul’s second love of his life was his beloved miniature dachshund, Molly. She loved being with Paul and he loved spoiling her.

Merrie and Paul celebrated 50 years of marriage this past January and are survived by a son, Michael (Vickie) Wardell of Bolivar; Paul’s twin sister, Paulette Everhart of Strasburg; sisters-in-law, Serena Thurin of New Philadelphia, Linda (William) Kemmett and Bobbie (Michael) Kemmett all of Lakewood and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by a son, Stephen Wardell.

The family will greet guests on Tuesday, October 14, 2014 from 11:00 AM-1:00 PM in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover where Pastor Brian Flood will lead a service celebrating Paul’s life at 1:00 PM. Burial in the Ridgecrest Memorial Gardens will follow. All are invited to return to the Hospitality Room of the Dover Geib Center for a time of food and fellowship following the services.

In gratitude for the care and compassion Paul received, the family wishes that memorial contributions in his name be directed to Community Hospice, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.