Paul James Geisler - Obituary

aul James Geisler, lovingly known as “Grandpaul” by his grandchildren, passed away gently in his sleep on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at the age of 79. On May 23, 1945, Paul was born in Washington, D.C. as the third of four sons to the late Anthony Aloysius Geisler and Anna Victoria Geisler. He was preceded in death by his older brothers Anthony “Tony” Geisler and Robert “Bob” Geisler and by his beloved son-in-law, Paul Kemp. Paul is survived by his cherished wife of 57 years, Marjorie Ann Geisler, tenderly referred to as Margie. He was a wonderful father to his daughter, Theresa Kemp, son, Paul Geisler, and daughter-in-law, Dawn Geisler, and was adored by his grandchildren, Savannah Geisler, Zachary Kemp, Shane (and Elise) Geisler and Victoria Kemp. Sadly, he also leaves behind his youngest brother, Raymond “Ray” Geisler and will be dearly missed by his in-laws, James (and Mary Margaret) Shannon, Karen (and Bob) Merry, Robert (and Nancy) Shannon, Mary Beth Neeley, Cliff Shannon, and Cathy Geisler. Raised in Bethesda, Maryland, Paul attended Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School and graduated from St. John’s College in Washington, D.C. He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Maryland in 1967 and embarked on a successful 48-year career in sales. Upon retirement in 2015, Paul and Margie moved to Ocean City, Maryland. There they continued to worship our Lord Jesus at St. Luke’s Catholic Church and generously welcomed countless visits from family and friends. Put simply, Paul was a giver. He always, and we mean ALWAYS, put others ahead of himself. No inconvenience, time, money, schedule, or distance stood between Paul and his willingness to be helpful and kind. He was a treasured son, husband, father, grandfather, in-law, and friend. Even in the most difficult conditions, he may sweat but still smile. He was most happy while making others happy; a rare and precious jewel of humanity in good times and bad. Paul was as fun as he was kind. He enjoyed watching his Redskins, Nationals, and Wizards play and loved playing poker with his buddies; especially Billy Boyle and the guys. Paul brought laughter and joy to every room he entered. Having Paul around was the secret ingredient for a good time. From family reunions in Iowa to family adventures in Florida; everything was better with Paul there. Also an avid walker, Paul would often hike from Ocean City to Delaware and back. He also enjoyed swimming and spending time in the sand with his family. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Paul’s life on Friday, August 23, 2024 from 9:30 am until a Memorial Mass begins at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 101 Owensville Road, West River, MD. A reception will immediately follow at his daughter’s home at 871 Fiorenza Drive in Lothian, Maryland. In lieu of flowers, his family would be honored by any donation made in Paul’s memory to Covenant House of New York (online here) or One7 Ministries (online here). In the 13th chapter of John’s gospel Jesus commands his followers to “Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” Paul’s life reflected his desire to follow that command and offers a legacy sure to ripple through generations of those who knew and loved him. Please take a moment to leave a condolence or message for the family using the Memories tab on this page.