Paul Richard Koester

Paul Richard Koester passed away at the age of 96 on Wednesday, June 8, 2022 at Rosary Care Center. Paul was born on January 12, 1926 to parents, Walter B. and Agnes M. Koester. A brother, James E., died in an auto accident in 1972. Paul attended Toledo Public Schools. Following graduation from Libby High School, he continued his education at the University of Toledo, where he received his Bachelor's and Master's degrees. His 30-year teaching career was about equally divided at Clyde High School and Toledo Libby and Bowsher High Schools. He served six years as chairman of the Social Studies Department at Bowsher prior to his retirement in 1977. Paul has maintained continuous membership with the Erie Shores Council of the Boy Scouts of America for over 80 years. He was known by many as "Mr. Miakonda," due to his over 40 years of service at Camp Miakonda, which included 16 years as Camp Director. Paul's most cherished scouting recognitions include The Silver Beaver Award (1957), Order of the Arrow Vigil Honor (1969), and 80- year recognition given in June 2017. He served on the Council's Properties Committee and The Executive Board. A few of his many achievements are new cabins, building renovation and motorized equipment at Camp Miakonda, all financed by Paul. He also funded a greenhouse for the Tiffin Franciscans Sisters. Paul continued his love of education by providing Lourdes University with The Koester Greenhouse, The Koester Student Rec Center Pavilion and the Paul R. Koester Endowed Scholarships in Biology and Education for students preparing to work with young people. Swan Creek Retirement Village has also benefitted with major help with a chapel project. Paul is survived by his niece, Dottie J. (Koester) Haas, two great nieces, Tesha and Lynette, two great great nieces and two great great nephews as well as several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Agnes, and brother, James. In lieu of flowers, please consider gifts in memory of Paul to Lourdes University's Paul R. Koester Endowed Scholarships, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania, Ohio 43560. Visitation will be on Tuesday, June 14 from 5:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. at Coyle Funeral Home, 1770 S. Reynolds, Toledo. Visitation will also take place at St. John XXIII on Wednesday, June 15 at 9:00 A.M. prior to a Mass celebrating Paul's life beginning at 10:00 A.M.at St. John XXIII Church, 24250 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg. Burial will be at Calvary cemetery following Mass.

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Paul Richard Koester

January 12, 1926 - June 9, 2022