Paul Angelo Takos

A kind and gentle man, Paul was born to James G. and Sarah Takos on September 6, 1953, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He passed away Friday, December 9, 2022, at the University of Utah Hospital after a bravely fought battle with a serious infection.

He enjoyed growing up in Rose Park with his loving parents, his brothers James Jr. and Mark (Shauna), and his sister Barbara Moore (Kent). He is preceded in death by his parents and older brother, James.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Pam (Hunt); his three children (of whom he was so proud), Zachary (Christy), Tristan, and Christopher; and his adored grandchildren, Landon, Ainsley, Jameson, and Oliver. In addition, for many years Paul lovingly filled the role of temporary father figure for forty-one children whom he and Pam fostered.

He served as a Salt Lake City firefighter for thirty-three years, rising to the rank of Captain. Paul’s many years of selfless service to his community is one of his defining characteristics.

Paul was a life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and loved his Savior, Jesus Christ. He had a strong testimony of the restored Gospel and firmly believed in the eternal nature of families and knew that he will one day be reunited with his loved ones.

While Paul enjoyed many things in life such as boating, holiday traditions, Diet Dr. Pepper, Disneyland, and long car drives, his greatest joy came from giving himself completely to his family. An accomplished water skier, Paul would rather spend his time at the lake teaching others the skill. As much as he liked watching sports or going to the theater, Paul would rather cheer on his children and grandchildren in their activities. Shopping was not his favorite thing to do, but if Pam said she wanted to go, Paul was there carrying the bags. He had a very special bond with his youngest son, Chris. Paul was a constant companion, tireless advocate, and best buddy to Chris. Whether it was going to look for trains, countless trips to Lagoon, or just puttering around the garage, the time Paul spent with Chris was not only a highlight of his life, but a testament of his dedication to those he loved.

Pursuant to Paul’s wishes, graveside services will be held on Monday, December 19, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Lakeview Cemetery in Bountiful, Utah.

In lieu of flowers, please consider performing an act of service this Holiday Season in Paul’s memory or by donating to the Cerebral Palsy Foundation.