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Paul's obituary

On August 24, 2025, we lost a beloved husband, father, son, brother, musician, and friend. Paul Alexander Lynch passed away at his home in Portland, Oregon at the age of 48 after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. To say that his family and friends are heartbroken is an understatement. His family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the team at Oregon Health & Science University for the care, compassion, and support they showed Paul throughout his fight.

Paul was born on May 14, 1977, at Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, California. In 1979, he moved with his parents to Potlatch, Idaho, where his two sisters were born. Throughout his childhood the family lived in Pullman, Washington and Grangeville, Idaho before eventually settling in Burbank, Washington. Paul graduated from Columbia High School in 1996 and later attended Washington State University, where he earned a degree in Graphic Design. He later went on to start his own business, Later Before Designs (l8b4designs). He also pursued several other creative side ventures that he enjoyed, including Gear Distro. 

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Sara Meerdter, and their two daughters, Esme Rose (8) and Raya Elizabeth (6), who were the absolute light of his life. He is also survived by his parents, Jim and Amy Lynch of Burbank, Washington; his sisters, Monica (Chris Haysloft) of Gladstone, Oregon and Emily (Kevin Tully) of Washington; and his niece.

While family always came first, Paul’s second great passion was music. Performing under the name DJ TAN’T and ((( In mono ))), he created and produced numerous albums and found joy in the endless possibilities of sound and creativity. In the mini studio he built in his basement, music became both an outlet and a gathering place for ideas. Sara often collaborated with him as well, adding her voice and bass to many of the songs they created together. Those sessions were not just about music—they were moments of connection, creativity, and love.

Paul was the kind of person who made people feel welcome the moment they met him. He had a natural warmth and humor that could brighten any room, and he was deeply loved by the many friends who stood by him throughout his life and especially during the past two years. The support and kindness shown to Paul and his family during his illness will never be forgotten.

Though Paul’s time with us feels far too short, the impact he made on the people who loved him will last forever. In his daughters’ laughter, in the music he created, and in the memories shared by those who knew him, Paul’s spirit will continue to live on. He will always be remembered for his creativity, his kindness, and the deep love he had for his family and friends.

Paul leaves behind a space that can never truly be filled, but also a lifetime of moments that will continue to guide and comfort those who loved him. His music, his laughter, and the love he shared with so many will echo on in the hearts of his family and friends for years to come.

Rest in peace, Paul.

You are forever loved and will always be missed. 🤍

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I was delighted that my children were friends with Paul.  He was more than just a friend.    I spent an afternoon talki…

I was delighted that my children were friends with Paul.  He was more than just a friend.    I spen…

I was delighted that my children were friends with Paul.  He was…

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Paul Lynch