Madison –

Paul Charles Payas passed away on Friday, December 11, 2015 from complications due to a stroke in Madison, WI at the age of 77. He was born in Albuquerque, NM on September 28, 1938. He was adopted by Rev. Frank and Florence Payas on April 29, 1946. He attended high school in Lincoln, NE and Muscoda, WI where he was a star athlete in baseball, football, basketball and track and also Homecoming King. After high school, he entered the U.S. Army and was stationed in Vietnam.

He was very proud to be a Madison Firefighter and Paramedic. He began his career for Madison Fire Department in 1968 and became a Lieutenant in 1992 and retired in 1998. He enjoyed his retirement to its fullest by spending his days fishing, golfing, playing pool, and dancing. He won awards in the Senior Badger State Games as well as numerous championships in golf, pool, archery and fishing.

The thing that made him the happiest was spending time with his family. He was proud of his children and grandchildren and he took extreme pleasure in all of their accomplishments, big and small. He will be remembered for being a loving and supportive father and granfather and a devoted friend to all who knew him. He truly enjoyed his life and always expressed gratitude to everyone who was a part of it.

He is survived by his children: Collette (Jeff) Cass, David Payas and Lesa (Jeff) Payas-Arnold; grandchildren: Katie, Tyler, Austin, Griffin, Dayna, Emily and Ben; brother, Brad (Glenda) Payas ; best friend and former wife, Connie Payas; former wife, Pat Payas and many other dear family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Holly and biological brother, Johnny.

A Celebration of Paul’s Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 19, 2015 at Ryan Funeral Home, 2419 N. Sherman Ave., with Cheri Milton officiating. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, December 18, 2015 at the funeral home and also on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Heartfelt thanks to all family members, friends and fellow firefighters who were so supportive to him, especially during these last two months.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Paul Payas

September 28, 1938 - December 11, 2015

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