William "Paul" Pinson, 70, of Palm City, Fla., passed away peacefully at home Monday, Jan. 17 after a battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis. Paul was surrounded by his loving wife, Linda, and family.

Paul was born in Williamson, W.Va. He was the eldest of three children born to Virginia and William Pinson. Paul was raised in Ypsilanti, Mich., where his high school friends remember him as the school mascot.

Paul joined the Navy in 1970, serving aboard the USS Southerland. He enjoyed his years in the Navy and reflected often on the many positive experiences he encountered during his Naval career. One role he developed a passion for was cooking.

While serving in the military, Paul came home to Ypsilanti to marry his high school sweetheart, Linda Weishaar. Paul and Linda celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary two days before his death.

Paul and Linda moved to California in 1977 with their eldest son, Patrick, and newborn daughter, Katie. In 1985 Paul and Linda completed their family by welcoming a third child, David.

While living in California, Paul started his 33-year career with the railroad. During his tenure, he worked with Southern Pacific, Denver Rio Grande, Union Pacific and RailAmerica. He was a purchasing manager who made his mark through the relationships he formed along the way. Paul had a genuine way with people and never met a stranger.

The many friends Paul and Linda met along the way were his anchor of support as the railroad moved the family from California, Colorado, Nebraska, and finally Florida. It was those relationships – formed during a golf outing, barbecue or stopping to talk while walking dogs, that filled him with joy.

Paul was an avid golfer, chef and coach. He was a fun grandfather who would swim all day and watch movies all night with his grandkids. He was a dedicated brother who took care of his younger brother, Gary Pinson, and parents, through illness. He was a friend to all.

He is survived by his wife, Linda of Palm City, Fla., his three children, Patrick (August) Pinson, Burbank, Calif.; Katie (Bill, Haven, Callie) Wilson, Denver Colo.; David Pinson, North Hollywood, Calif.; and younger brother, Jeff (Sharon, Jenny, Kyle) Pinson, Richmond, Ind.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Gary.

A military service will be held at 10 a.m., Feb. 3 at South Florida National Veterans Cemetery, 6501 S. State Road-7, Lake Worth, Fla. 33449.