Paul Edward McKishen passed away on June 29, 2025, in Montrose, Colorado, at the age of 89.

Paul was born in Elmer, New Jersey, on July 5, 1935, to Charles and Verna McKishen.

He gave his life to Christ on August 26, 1951, at the age of 16 during a Pilgrim Holiness camp meeting in Glassboro, New Jersey. He sought to “walk with God like Enoch of Old”. He spent much time in prayer for his friends, relatives, and persecuted Christians around the world.

In New Jersey, he worked as the shipping manager for Kostner’s nursery. From 1958-1971, Paul served his country in the US Army. He was stationed in CuChi in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967 and spent some time in Thailand. Paul was in Okinawa from 1968-1969, and when he returned to Hawaii, was promoted to Staff Sergeant E6. He was offered another promotion, but turned it down so that someone else could have it. Paul was a part of the 25th infantry division.

In April 1973, Paul was married in Wahiawa, Hawaii, to Karen Gieselman. The birth of their daughter Sarah followed on February 10, 1974.

In Hawaii, Paul worked for Oahu Amusement and Vending. And in Montrose, he worked for Whitey’s Home Improvement, Silverleaf Insulation, and Schneider‘s Ready Mix. He also worked for a number of years for retired scientist Cresson Kearny.

Paul took a course in small engine repair, and he enjoyed working on old cars. He also enjoyed purchasing used rifles, restoring them, and loading his own ammunition. He was also a fan of baseball and loved to play “catch”. Paul was known for his bike riding. For most of his years in Colorado, he rode at least 15 miles a day. Even though he couldn’t ride as far in his later years, he would still get on his bike almost every day if weather permitted. Paul fixed a lot of bikes for neighborhood kids, and often gave bikes away.

Paul was preceeded in death by his wife Karen Mckishen by 9 days, his parents Charles and Verna Mckishen, and many brothers and sisters as he was from a large family.

Paul’s surviving family members include his daughter Sarah Koschmann, his son-in-law Nathan Koschmann, his grandsons Troy and Jasper Koschmann, his brother Phil McKishen, and his sister Jane Sanchez.

A joint memorial service will be held for Paul and his wife Karen at 2pm, on July 26, 2025, at the First Church of the Nazarene, 705 S 12th St, Montrose, Colorado. In lieu of flowers, donations for Voice of the Martyrs would be greatly appreciated.  There will not be a reception to follow.

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