Paul VanGuilder

Cheraw, SC

Mr. Paul R. VanGuilder, 83, passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Cheraw Healthcare of natural causes. Paul was born on August 21, 1940, in Proctorsville, VT to the late Paul A. and Charlotte Stone VanGuilder. Paul grew up and graduated from Poultney Highschool in 1959. He enlisted in the Air Force for 8 years in the Military Police. He then came back to Vermont and enlisted in the Army National Guard and served as a Platoon Sergeant in HHC, 2^nd Battalion, 172 Armor. He retired from the Vt. National Guard after 12 years, in which he was very proud of his service. He then went to work for Coca-Cola, Volkswagen, and General Electric for many years until retiring in 2000.

Paul was very community involved and helped start Thanksgiving dinners at FOE #3907 in Fair Haven, Vermont. After moving to Cheraw, he was a part of American Legion and the VFW. Paul was a member of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church and enjoyed being apart of their church choir. Paul was a proud supporter of the Cheraw Braves and the Booster Club. Paul’s love for the Clemson Tigers went beyond football; it was a way for Paul to show his love and support for his grandchildren, who graduated from Clemson University. Paul’s love for his family was steadfast.

Paul lived his life with unwavering courage, determination, and the indomitable spirit that defined Paul. Just like the iconic song My Way, Paul embraced life on his own terms, leaving an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to have known him. Paul lived life fearlessly, never conforming to societal expectations or succumbing to the pressures of conformity. With every joy and every setback, he faced life head-on, always choosing to follow his own path. Paul could proudly say, 'I did it my way.'

Paul taught his family and friends the importance of staying true to themselves, embracing their passions, and reminded them that it is never too late to start anew. He touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible impression with his unwavering spirit and infectious enthusiasm. He inspired them to embrace their own uniqueness, pursue their dreams with unwavering determination, and live life fully, just as he did.

Paul was predeceased by his parents listed above, his brothers, Richard VanGuilder and Gary VanGuilder; the mother of his children, Keiko Igarashi VanGuilder.

Paul is survived by his wife, Lois Melton VanGuilder of Cheraw, SC; his sons, Robert VanGuilder (Melissa) of Vermont, Bruce VanGuilder (Lisa) of Vermont; grandchildren, Brandon, Trevor, and Oliver; great-grandchild, Everlee; and his sister, LauraVanGuilder Bronson.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at the Florence National Cemetery, 803 E. National Cemetery Rd, Florence, SC 29506.

Kiser Funeral Home has been entrusted to serve the VanGuilder family during their time of grief.