Paul Robert Dommel

Paul R Dommel passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, at the age of 92, leaving behind a life defined by devotion to family, learning, and adventure. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Frances, his wife of more than 59 years

Born and raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Paul proudly served in the United States Air Force as a young man. Later, while working as a reporter for the Honolulu Star-Bulletin in Hawaii, he met Frances. Born and raised on Kauai, she was teaching school on Oahu at the time. Their meeting became the beginning of a lifelong partnership rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and a deep commitment to family.

After they married, Paul and Frances moved back to the East Coast, where they raised a family together. Paul earned his PhD in Political Science and went on to a distinguished career as a professor of political science. Early in his career, he taught at Holy Cross College in Massachusetts. He later joined Cleveland State University, where he ultimately served as head of the Political Science Department before retiring. Paul was respected as a professor and mentor, admired for his knowledge, leadership, and dedication to students.

Paul and Frances shared a love of travel and made many memorable trips together. They criss-crossed the US by car and traveled frequently to Europe and Hawaii -- adventures they cherished.

Above all, Paul was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his four children, ten grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy. Paul’s steady presence, thoughtful guidance, and enduring love will continue to be felt for generations.

Paul’s legacy lives on in the lives he shaped—both inside the classroom and, most importantly, at home. Paul and Frances will be remembered with deep love and will be dearly missed. Together, they built a life of love and purpose—always on their own terms. Simply put, they did it their way.