Paul George Duzenack

Paul George Duzenack, age 84, passed on February 17th, 2023 surrounded by his loving family following an extended illness. Mr. Paul Duzenack was born January 23^rd, 1940 in Walsenburg, Colorado and was the son of George and Effie Duzenack.

Paul was an educator and leader in education his entire life; he touched many people’s lives in that realm. He was employed as a teacher for 17 years in Nevada, Alaska & Colorado. In 1977, he became the Principal of Breeze Elementary in Craig, Colorado as well as the Maybell, Browns Park, Dinosaur and Powder Ridge schools. Paul became the first principal of Ridgeview Elementary School in 1983 where he remained until his retirement in 1994. He brought in many innovative reading and math programs that were new at the time.

Paul was a member of the school board for many years and always dedicated to and passionate about the betterment of the education of both his students and teachers.

He was an avid car enthusiast and loved restoring and working on his old cars. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially with his children. Paul moved to Mesa, Colorado in 1995. A lifelong learner, he went back to school to learn more about auto mechanics/auto painting and culinary arts. He volunteered for Meals on Wheels in the Mesa area and also at Plateau Valley Skilled Nursing Facility.

Paul was a very hardworking, loving father, grandfather, husband and a man of his word. He had a smile that was contagious and he always had a positive attitude. Paul could be easily recognized in his western attire, usually with a bolo tie and a cowboy hat. He had a generous spirit and always willing to help anyone in need. There is no doubt that Paul touched many lives throughout his years. 

Paul was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Duzenack in 1993. He is survived by his two sons, Roger Duzenack and Don Duzenack and his daughter, Peggy Kammen (Duzenack) and his second wife, Beverly Duzenack. He had four granddaughters who he loved dearly and was very proud of. 

A memorial celebration of Paul’s life will be held this summer up at Powderhorn Ski Resort at a future date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to HopeWest in Plateau Valley.