Paul Marvin Koetting's Obituary
Paul Marvin Koetting, 68, beloved husband, father, and "Green Papaw," passed away on February 2, 2025. His quiet strength and gentle spirit filled every room he entered. Born in Groom, Texas, Paul was the eldest of eleven children and a farmhand from his earliest days, developing the work ethic and dedication to family that were the essence of who he was. He showed up - for family, for friends, for everything that mattered - without needing recognition or fanfare.
After graduating from Groom High School and earning his associate's degree, Paul built a career that included work in the oil fields, where he met the love of his life, Mary Ruth Glassett. They married in Alpine, Texas, beginning a devoted partnership that would span 45 years. Paul retired recently from Oldcastle after 20 years as maintenance supervisor, where his dedication to excellence and strong bonds with his coworkers were hallmarks of his service.
A man of quiet strength and gentle spirit, Paul never needed to have the spotlight on him. His helping hands and generous heart extended not just to family, but to friends, coworkers, and any stranger in need. Whether it was a broken-down car on the highway or a neighbor's home repair, Paul was always ready to help with his characteristic kindness, expertise, and humor. His favorite place in the whole world was wherever his children and grandchildren gathered – usually at a ballfield. When at home, you'd most likely find him in his cherished chair or working on a project. His entertainment preferences ran from Lonesome Dove to his favorite music genre: AM talk radio.
Paul was a dedicated Catholic and active member of the Knights of Columbus for over 30 years. He was an avid reader of westerns, and a master tinkerer whose skills and generosity touched countless lives in the community.
He was preceded in death by his son Logan, father Marvin, mother Mary Ann, brother Henry, sister-in-law Diane, and brothers-in-law Gary McGuire and Richard Glassett. Paul is survived by his wife Mary; son Paul Ryan and wife Tamara, and their children Addie, Ember, Lilith, and Brilee; daughters Marissa and Katrina and Katrina’s wife Emily. He also leaves behind his siblings: Sister in law Margie, brother Mark and wife Kim, sister Kay Ledbetter and husband Randy, sister Jane Meyer husband Richard, sister Jean Noggler and husband John, brother Neil and wife Cheryl, sister Kathleen and husband Keith, brother Richard Koetting, and numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
His legacy lives on in the countless memories shared at ballfields, in quiet moments, and in the lives he touched with his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for his family. Beneath that quiet exterior was a sharp wit that could catch you by surprise and light up the whole room. He was a constant, steady force as a husband, father, and friend who shaped our lives in ways we'll forever be grateful for.
Graveside services will be held at 11 AM in St. Mary's Cemetery in Groom on Monday, February 10, 2025.
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