Paul Robert Geelan

Paul R. Geelan, 54, Independence MO, died Friday, April 8, 2005, at the home of his daughter, surrounded by his family and friends after a 7 month battle with brain cancer. Visitation will be 6:30-8:00 pm Wednesday at Speaks Suburban Chapel; rosary and eulogy at 8:00 pm. A memorial mass will be said at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest contributions to the American Cancer Society or Cancer Action. Paul was born July 13, 1950, in St. Louis, MO, to Daniel and Marilyn Geelan. Raised in Kansas City, MO, he attended grade school at Holy Cross and Blue Springs High School, graduating in 1968. Paul served in the U.S. Army 1968-1971, stationed at Ft. Lewis, Tacoma WA, and Dulmen, Germany. He started cooking for restaurants at age 14 and continued in the field all his life, including the army. When discharged, he became sous chef at La Bonne Auberge and eventually became executive chef of the St. Joseph Country Club. Paul obtained a degree in Culinary Arts and also taught classes at Penn Valley Community College. A highlight of his career was when he placed 2nd in the Plaza Ice Carving Contest. Paul continued his career in cooking in Columbia, MO, and eventually moved to Tampa, FL, where he lived the last 12 years. He loved to cook for his family and friends, scuba dive, travel, and collect McDonalds memorabila. Woodworking was another passion. Paul loved life, seeing it through a dry wit and sense of humor. He was the proud parent of Sara Geelan and is leaving a huge void in the lives of his two brothers, George and Frank Geelan, and sister and brother-in-law Sue and George Sponcler, Otterville MO. He also leaves his parents, Dan and Marilyn Geelan, formerly of Blue Springs, MO, now residing in Mission TX; two nieces and a grandniece. Online condolences may be left at www.speakschapel.com. (Arr: Speaks Suburban Chapel)