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ESCANABA -- Paul Joseph Kirch, 73, passed away at his home of 30 years in Laguna Niguel, California on April 18, 2026. The cause of death was cancer. Paul was born August 29, 1952 in Kalamazoo, Michigan to Roger and Sophie Kirch, both of whom were from the U.P. In 1957, his family returned to the U.P. to live in Escanaba.
Paul graduated from Holy Name High School in 1970. He worked for Fox Valley Construction while attaining his private pilot's license in 1974 from Thorin Aviation. He then attended and graduated in 1977 from Northrup University in Inglewood, California, prior to heading to Alaska where he flew various aircraft transporting supplies and personnel to the oilfields and remote communities accessible only by air. By the late 80's, Paul was working for American Airlines as a commercial pilot, eventually rising to the rank of Captain.
Paul retired in 2008 and spent his retirement engaging in 1,000 mile/day "iron butt" motorcycle trips and helping anyone on their home or landscaping projects, especially if it involved hauling heavy stuff.
The party always started when he showed up with his matchless sense of humor, curiosity, and concern for everyone's well-being. A generous and tender soul, Paul was always the first to arrive to lend a hand and the protector of those he cared about. While he cherished family and friends, he loved the outdoors and the U.P. in particular. He was a treasured son, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, and friend.
He will live forever in the hearts of those who survive him including his sister Kathy, brother Allan, sister Marian/Arti (Cindy) and an extended family of loving cousins. A celebration of life will be held on July 31, 2026 at the Ford River Township Hall at 5 p.m.