Paul Edward Gapen was born October 4, 1929, in Morton, Washington, to Paul Elbert and Cora Gapen.

After graduating from Snoqualmie High School, he ventured to Alaska.

While in Alaska, he served in the Army for two years, from 1951–1953, in Fairbanks at Ladd Field.

This is where he met his future wife, Ann.

They married on June 6, 1953.

In Alaska, they raised three children, Patrice, John, and Nicholas.

Paul loved living in Alaska.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, being a pilot, and being a big-game guide.

In 1986, after the children were settled in their careers, Paul and Ann moved to Cheyenne.

Paul is survived by his wife of 73 years and their three children.

He is also survived by two granddaughters and three great-grandchildren.

Vigil for the Deceased will be held on Monday October 12 at 6pm at the Church of the Holy Trinity. Funeral Mass will be held the following day, Tuesday October 13 at 10am also at Holy Trinity with a light luncheon being held downstairs after Mass at approximately11:00 a.m. Everyone is also welcome to join the family to the Cheyenne National Cemetery on Hildreth Road for burial and military honors happening at 1pm. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choosing, if you wish.