LAYTON – Paul “Papa” Valdez, loving husband, father, and brother passed away Wednesday, April 25, 2018, at the age of 65 while sleeping at home. He was born April 18, 1953, in Ogden, Utah to Tony Valdez and Benita Trujillo. He married his high school sweetheart, Judy (Julia) Quintana on December 29, 1971, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Layton.
He served his country as a U.S. Air Force veteran from 1971-1975. He continued to serve as a civil servant until his retirement in 2008. After serving his country for so many years, Paul rediscovered his passion for riding motorcycles, playing music, and traveling.
He and his wife Judy were found all across the country on their bike. They made several cross-country trips from California to South Dakota and from Canada to Mexico. Having learned to play the guitar in retirement, he was honored to play with his friends the Kap Brothers and many other friends along the way.
Paul had a profound love of music that began in childhood having learned to play the accordion and violin as a child. He learned to play the drums in high school with his Uncle’s David and John. Throughout the rest of his life, he discovered the piano, harmonica, and guitar.
Paul was especially grateful for his friend Roby Kap in providing encouragement, tutoring, and friendship along the way. His dream had always been to play music for mass audiences, friends, and his family, which he accomplished. Family to Paul was the most important thing in his life.
He traveled with his family across the country to visit extended family. His love for his mother was beyond reproach as he visited her every day and took pride in helping her sisters in any way possible. Camping became a staple of keeping his family together.
Paul created a home away from home in the Unitas on Moose Fork Ln. (FFF) for all who would make the drive. Lastly, his life revolved around his grandchildren.
From going to soccer games, school recitals, to spending countless hours in the computer room surrounded by them listening to music and watching TV. Surviving is his mother; Benita Valdez, wife Judy (Julia), children; Tonya Massengale (James), Ogden; and Christopher Valdez (Jamie), Roy; five grandchildren, (Spencer, Julia, Alex, Anthony, Quentin). He was preceded in death by his sister Rita Bronson and his father.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at 10 a.m. at Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 210 South Chapel Street, Layton, Utah. Friends may visit family Monday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 No. Fairfield Road.
A Vigil with Rosary will be held at 7:30 p.m. Interment, Clearfield City Cemetery. Motorcycles welcome.
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