Paul J. Shallcross, a man of deep loyalty, a cornerstone of a vast community of friends, and an adventurer at heart, passed away on March 23, 2026.

A native of Chicago born on October 7, 1985, Paul attended Saint Patrick High School, graduating in 2004, and continued his education at the University of Illinois, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. While education provided a foundation for his career, the friendships he forged during those years became the true essence of his life. Paul possessed a rare ability to make and maintain many friendships; through them he built a tightly knit network that stretched from the streets of Chicago to the peaks of Denver and beyond. To Paul, "family" was a word defined by choice and shared experience, and he was a devoted brother to a sprawling community of peers who loved him deeply. He was also a loving husband, son, and brother.

Paul’s true sanctuary was found outdoors. He looked for meaning on a trail or under the wide-open sky. Alongside his wife and partner in adventure, Christina Gustavson, he lived for the discovery of the natural world. Together, they trekked through 28 of the U.S. National Parks and explored the rugged beauty of New Zealand. Whether hiking a new trail or simply at home with his beloved dogs, nine-year-old Scrabble and one-year-old Gordie, he was at peace in the presence of nature and his boys.

When he wasn’t on the move, Paul’s deep connection to music filled the space around him. He delighted in collecting vinyl and the ritual of putting on a record. He could be found spontaneously belting out songs by Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen, and other power rock anthems at full volume. He was equally passionate about sports, proudly carrying his Chicago roots as a fan of the Chicago Bears, Cubs, and Bulls, while recently finding a connection cheering on the Denver Nuggets and Seattle Kraken.

Paul is survived by his wife, Christina Gustavson; his parents, Charles and Veronica Shallcross; and his brothers, Tom (Ashley) Shallcross and Andrew (Emily Pinheiro) Shallcross, along with his nieces and nephews, Riley, Molly, Tommy, and James.

In honor of Paul’s spirit and his love for the wild places that gave him so much, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the National Park Foundation.

Because of Paul’s large extended family there will be two Celebrations of Life; the first on May 15th, 2026 in Denver at FlyteCo Tower from 1-5 pm. There will be a short service with thoughts from Christina his wife and some friends at 2pm. The second Celebration of Life will be hosted in the Chicagoland area with the date and time TBD. 

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