Paul Eugene Beitzel

Paul Eugene Beitzel, 90, passed away at Park Village South in New Philadelphia on January 29, 2026. Born to the late Walter E. and Gertrude E. (Lieser) Beitzel, on July 25, 1935, he was a lifelong resident of New Philadelphia and a 1953 graduate of Dover High School.

Paul, whose life was marked by a strong work ethic, always believed in leaving things better than he found them. He was a man full of faith with a strong commitment to his family and community.

On December 1, 1957, Paul married LaJoya M. Kohler in New Philadelphia. Their union was blessed by two sons and one daughter.

Shortly after marriage, Paul was drafted into the US Army and served over two years in non-combat service in Germany. Upon returning home, Paul embarked on a remarkable life-long career in the trucking industry. He was an owner-operator and earned numerous awards for safety during his nearly 60 years of driving.

Paul was a long-time member of the Emmanuel Church on the Southside of New Philadelphia, Ohio. Over the years, he served in numerous roles at the church and was a faithful, dedicated Christian.

Surviving are his wife, LaJoya, of 68 years, a son James (Twila) Beitzel of South Carolina, a daughter, Ruth (David) Lucas of New Mexico, and a son, Mark (Priscilla) Beitzel of New Philadelphia, Ohio, 9 grandchildren, one step grandson, and 13 great- grandchildren; sister, Becky (Rev. Jim) Hamilton of Alberta, Canada, and a brother David (Enid) Beitzel of Colorado along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother John, and a sister Betsy Frautschy.

Friends may call from 3:00 to 6:00 PM on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Geib Funeral Center in Dover. Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, February 2, 2026, at Geib Funeral Center in Dover with Pastor Scott Lawton officiating. Burial at Ridgecrest Memory Gardens in Dover, Ohio will take place at a later date.

The family wishes to thank the dedicated staff at Park Village South and Crossroads Hospice for their outstanding care and kindness.