Paul Leo Dahlkemper Sr., age 82, of Summit Township passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2014 at UPMC Hamot surrounded by his family. Born in Summit Township on June 22, 1931, he was the son of the late Leo Dahlkemper and Barbara Waldinger Dahlkemper.
Paul graduated from Academy High School with the class of 1949. He began a career as an industrial engineer with AMSCO (Steris) retiring in 1993 after 35 years of service. He served as a Summit Township supervisor from 1998 to 2003, and also worked as an EMT for MedStat. As a member of the Perry Hi-Way Hose Company for over sixty years, he served as chief, assistant chief, ambulance supervisor, and on the board of directors. He was a life member of the Zukor Club, the Siebenbuerger Club, the Summit Senior Center, and since 2000, a member of the Summit Lions Club. He belonged to Post 285 of the American Legion, was a past chairman of Boy Scout Troop #71, a fire safety instructor, and an 18-gallon blood donor. As a member of All Saints Parish, he served on the planning committee and as a Eucharistic minister. A U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War, Paul was stationed in Korea from 1952-1953.
Paul is survived by his wife of sixty-one years, Norma Jean Hanlin Dahlkemper, whom he married on July 12, 1952, four daughters: Marilyn Niebauer, husband Martin of Erie; Carolyn Monocello, husband Mark of Millcreek; Kathryn Lawrence, husband James of Waterford; and Jacklyn Gausman, husband Joseph of Erie; a son, Dr. Patrick E. Dahlkemper of Pittsburgh. He is also survived by a daughter-in-law, Lori Dahlkemper of Waterford; a sister, Barbara Schreiber of Erie; 18 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son, Paul L. Dahlkemper Jr. in 2010, and a brother, Cyril E. Dahlkemper.
Friends may call Tuesday, April 15, 2014, from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford. Funeral services will be Wednesday morning starting with a prayer service at the funeral home at 9:15 a.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial at All Saints Parish Roman Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. with Father Thomas Whitman as celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in McKean.
Memorials may be made to Perry Hi-Way Hose Company, Summit Lions Club, or All Saints Parish.
Norma Jean and Family,
I was so sorry to read of Paul passing. He was a wonderful gentleman and superb public servant. When I was in County government, it was so great to work with him, as he was always accessible, and cared for his township and its neighbors with all his strength. He always had a smile for others and was diligent in his duties to the citizens. It was an honor to have known and worked with him. God bless you in this time of sadness. Sending hugs from your Millcreek friend. Joy
Norma Jean and family, We share your sorrow and offer our prayers for Paul. Remembering Paul brings many happy memories and I am sure your family will be able to support each other by sharing other good memories with Paul.
Ps. Ron is struggling with Alzheimer;s and other serious illnesses. He has been at St. Mary’s Asbury for almost a month.
My condolences to the Dahlkemper family. I knew Paul from my years as an Erie County firefighter and state fire instructor. He was a great guy and it was a pleasure to have worked with him over they ears. He dedicated many years to the people of Summit Township and his loss will be felt by many. My thoughts and prayers to you during this time of sorrow.