Richard Paul

Richard Paul (age 79) of Columbus, OH passed away on February 17, 2024. Rich, a devoted husband, father, brother, and grandfather, was born on April 19, 1944, in Lykens, PA. He graduated from Lykens High School as Valedictorian, then attended the Ohio State University. He graduated from OSU with a degree in Food Science which he used during his 32 years as a microbiologist at Ross Laboratories (Abbott Laboratories) in Quality Assurance. 

Rich loved science from a young age, but nothing matched his love for the great outdoors which began when he was a Boy Scout. He found joy in hiking, birding, and exploring nature. His explorations and hiking translated into 20 years of volunteering for the Columbus Metro Parks. Rich's fascination with insects, moths, and birds led to him monitoring Blue Bird nesting boxes and a 10 year long moth study in collaboration with the Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park and the Ohio State University. He spent nights collecting moths and his days mounting and cataloging them to study diversity and ecosystem health. Those who knew him well will fondly recall the constant melody of bird sounds that Rich would whistle or hum. 

Beyond his outdoorsy pursuits, Rich was known for his detail-oriented and curious nature but also his calm, quiet, and gentle demeanor. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, who lovingly called him “Rip” and his two daughters, Courtney Van Voorhis (Mike), Lindsay Kaps (Greg), and his three grandchildren Dorian, Finn, and Evelyn Van Voorhis. 

The family would like to thank the staff at Cotter House of Worthington for their kindness and care of Rich during the final years of his Alzheimer’s journey.

 As we bid farewell to Rich, let us remember his kind and reserved demeanor, his love for nature, as well as his contributions through volunteering. May his spirit forever roam the wooded trails he loved. 

Visitation will be at TIDD FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 5265 Norwich St. Hilliard, OH 43026 from 2:00-3:00 on SUNDAY, February 25. A short Celebration of Life Service will follow. 

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks. https://www.metroparks.net/guide-to-giving/