Paul A. Kenas

PORTAGE – Paul A. Kenas, age 65, of Portage, unexpectedly went home to be with his Lord and Savior, on Thursday, August 1, 2024, after years of recurrent illnesses.

Paul was born on September 12, 1958, to Robert and Laverne Kenas and was the youngest of eight children. He grew up on a farm in Rosendale, learning the value of hard work at an early age. Paul met his future wife, Cindy, while attending Asbury College in Kentucky, and the two were married for 43 years. They were blessed with two children, of whom Paul was immensely proud. He was a committed husband and father, spending many years building the addition of his family’s home with the assistance of his friends.

Paul dedicated over three decades to teaching middle school social studies, a role which gave him deep fulfillment. He particularly enjoyed judging students during speech and debate competitions. Throughout his life, Paul was an active member of his church. He led many mission trips, both nationally and internationally. After retirement from teaching, Paul drove a taxicab, which allowed him to share his faith with those he encountered. Paul retired completely during the pandemic and used his newfound free time to spend time with his grandchildren.

Paul liked doing puzzles, playing cards, telling corny jokes, visiting his grandchildren, reading, exercising at Anytime Fitness, and talking to friends and family on the telephone. He was well-traveled, particularly appreciating Branson, New York City, Myrtle Beach, Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, Aruba, Jamaica, and China. Paul was involved with Kinship Mentoring of Columbia County, a mentorship program for school age children, and enjoyed socializing weekly with the men from his church. Paul and Cindy’s cat, Bo, held a special place in Paul’s heart.

Paul will be remembered as a pillar to all those around him, a man of strong faith, and a devoted grandfather.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy; their two children, Sarah (Shawn) Skiles and Greg (Angie) Kenas; their eight grandchildren, Max Kenas, Hannah Kenas, Austin Kenas, Mathew Skiles, Marshal Skiles, Chloe Skiles, Jackson Skiles, and Sophie Skiles; his siblings, Robert (Donna) Kenas, Kathleen Berea, Chuck (Carla) Kenas, James (Kathy) Kenas, and Mark (special friend, Sam) Kenas; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, including Valerie (Robert) McEntire and Julie Parker, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Philip Kenas and Thomas Kenas.

A visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at Crosspoint Assembly of God Church in Portage. A funeral service will commence at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Brent Johnson officiating. Inurnment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Mission Ministry at Crosspoint Assembly of God.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family.