Paul Duncan Stenlund

Paul Duncan Stenlund died suddenly on September 4, 2023, in Longview. He is survived by his wife Sharon Stenlund and her six adult children. He was preceded in death by his parents Roy and Grace Stenlund, and brothers Bud and Bill.

Paul spent his entire life on the Columbia River. Born in Longview, he spent his childhood in Chinook and Ilwaco, where his family owned a fishing business. Paul was known as an avid boatsman and sailor and first crossed the Columbia Bar at the age of five. Paul was called upon many times by friends to sail a boat out the Columbia and up to Puget Sound. He also spent many years racing sailboats offshore and was a regular on the sailboat racing scene in Longview. He was a member of the Longview and Cathlamet Yacht Clubs.

Paul graduated from Mark Morris in 1968 and was later drafted into service in the Vietnam War where he earned various medals and awards. Although Paul was quiet about his service record, his family was proud of his Bronze Star Medal, Bronze Star Service Medal, Parachutist Badge, Pathfinder Badge, and Expert Rifle and Pistol distinctions.

Paul married Sharon Stenlund in Feb 1997, after a friendship dating back to the 70's. Paul and Sharon moved to Puget Island in May of 1991 and enjoyed the years on Welcome Slough sailing and watching the slough come and go.

Paul retired on January 1, 2012, after working for the Port of Longview, Reynolds, and private enterprises. He spent his retirement years enjoying time on the slough with Sharon, reading, wood working, and working on his boat projects. His final boat project was to purchase and rebuild the 38' OSO. Paul was not afraid to tackle any boating project. When not working on boats, he spent his time woodworking, running his 3D printer, and photography.