Paul Edward Charland, 83, of Gresham, Oregon passed away on February 14, 2017 surrounded by his family.

For Paul, the “beat” began in Barre, Vermont on October 6, 1933. As a young man he joined the Air Force and traveled to two US territories prior to statehood. As his “steps” quickened he met his future wife “Ruthie” during these travels and was married on 2/22/1953 in Parks Air Force Base, CA; they were married for 63 years. Paul and his family settled in Castro Valley, California where the choreography included owning and operating a construction company that specialized in remodeling with his eldest son Steve for over 20 years. Paul and Ruth moved to Gresham, Oregon where Paul formed an extraordinary bond with his daughter in-law, Deanna. His son Greg spent countless hours enjoying Paul’s sarcasm and dry wit. He enjoyed all types of fishing and would take his “boys” fishing at any opportunity. Paul is survived by his wife Ruth; children, Steve, Scott and Greg; daughter in-laws, Deanna, Cathy, and Karen; grandchildren, Aubrey, Amber, Christopher, Nicollete, Jake, and Cody; Great Grandchildren, Dorian, Denna, Weston, Norin, Sarah, Alessio, and Jesse; and other family and friends. Paul, it was an unforgettable dance.