March 25, 1936 – January 6, 2025

With incredible sadness we announce the passing of our father Paul Allen Thorpe peacefully in his sleep January 6, 2025, at the age of 88.

Paul was born March 25, 1936, in Los Angeles, California. He was a fraternal twin to a brother. Paul was one of three boys. A large part of his childhood was in Van Nuys, California where he graduated from High School. He continued his education attending college where he received his bachelor’s degree. Paul’s degree took him to the Los Angeles County Road Dept in the Personnel Division. The road dept became the Los Angeles County Dept of Public Works, and his career continued in the personnel department for the next 30 years. He loved it. He was a people person, so it was a perfect fit.

In 1962 Paul met the partner of his dreams – his words not mine – Millie. Millie was the mother of 3 children and Paul said, “Watching what a great mom she was caused him to fall in love”. They married in 1964. Soon after the wedding Paul adopted her 3 kids, making them a family of 5. Millie gave birth to another child in 1966.

In 1992 Paul and Millie moved to Grass Valley, California and built a beautiful country home that they shared with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Millie and Paul had a truly wonderful marriage-partnership for over 59 years when Millie passed in 2023.

Paul was very vocal that life was a gift, and he had so much appreciation for that gift. He felt blessed to live in a free country where he could enjoy his hobbies like camping, and flying, along with many different activities like racquetball, tennis, and waterskiing. Travel was a large part of family life and continued in his retirement. He loved to try new things and seeing new places.

Paul lived at home until the age of 86 when his needs were better served in an environment that could keep him safe. His wife found that place at Cascades of Grass Valley. The staff were very caring, and could provide for him in a safe, healthy and active environment.

Even when his memory was gone, he still lived in the moment and always had a smile on his face, and a positive attitude. Staff commented that any time you asked him how he was he would answer “Great” with that happy smile. He was able to stay physically active, which was a blessing.

We will miss you forever, Dad. Hope you were able to find Mom, you were not always the best with directions. No worries, I am sure she will find you.

Paul was proceeded in death by his precious Grand Daughter BillieMay (Bim) Thorpe who passed in 2024.

Paul is survived by his daughters Vicki Thorpe (Jeff), Carol Parr (James), Peggy Thorpe, Grandson Andew Thorpe (Heather), and Great Granddaughter’s Autumn and Lyra.