Retired Evangelical Covenant Church minister Paul E. Springer died Saturday, July 3, 2021. He was 78.
He was born on December 2, 1942, in Upland, Indiana, to Harold Springer and Kathryn “Kitty” (Smith) Springer. The family moved to Turlock, California, when Harold was the administrator of Emanuel Hospital, which was owned and operated by the Covenant.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in theater arts from Alaska Methodist University and a master’s of divinity from North Park Theological Seminary.
Paul married Karen Genseal on March 21, 1970, before moving to Chicago so he could attend seminary. They served churches in South San Francisco, California; Willoughby Hills, Ohio; St. Petersburg, Florida; and Turlock, where he eventually retired. Karen preceded him in death in 2011.
In addition to serving several congregations, Paul served on the Southeast Conference Executive Board and as president of the conference’s Ministerium. He also served on the Covenant Executive Board and was the moderator of the Annual Meeting from 1995 to 1996.
Paul married Susan Jacobson Lindahl on September 15, 2012. He became “GrandPaul” to her four grandchildren. From 2016 to 2019, Paul and Sue relocated to Kenbridge, Virginia, to be near his family. Paul and Sue have resided in Turlock since their return.
Survivors include his wife, Susan; step-children Brett Lindahl (Julie) and Janelle Lindahl Comfort; and four step-grandchildren.
Paul was buried during a private ceremony at Turlock Memorial Park. A memorial service was held Saturday, July 31, at First Presbyterian Church in Turlock.
