CIESLA, Paul

Please note the venue change. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00AM Saturday July 20, 2024 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints FORESTRY AVE CHAPEL, Lethbridge Alberta.
Friends meet family prior to service from 10:00AM – 10:45AM at the Church.
CIESLA PAUL HANS TILL CIESLA, dearly loved husband of Kathy, passed away peacefully prepared to meet his Creator after a lengthy illness at age 82.
Predeceased by his beloved Daughter, Stephanie; Parents, Paul A. Ciesla and Inge Till Ciesla; Sisters, Ruby Hirch and Inge Hoffman; and beloved Niece, Paula Hirch.
Survived by his Wife, (Kathleen) Kathy. Children: (Paul) Russ (Ginger)- son Brandon Norris; son Kurt and his daughter, Lydia, Paul’s adored and favourite granddaughter; along with many loved nieces and nephews.
Paul was born to parents who immigrated to Canada from Germany during the inter-war period. As a youth he liked singing, art, drama, and music, especially jazz. He acted with Lethbridge Playgoers from age 17 until he left Lethbridge at age 20. Also at age 20, through study and prayer, he decided to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and became a faithful member the rest of his life.
He spent his 20th year at Alberta College of Art in Calgary 62′ – 63′ where he received high marks and had the best and most intense art education. From 1964-1966 he went to Germany on a mission for his church. He later attended the U of L from 67′ – 70′ and graduated with distinction with a Bachelor of Education Degree. He excelled in film production, and camera work.
He spent 31 years teaching at Foremost School, Hamilton Jr. High, Westminster Elementary and Dr. Probe School. Retired in 2001, he subbed for 11 years, till arthritis took it’s toll. He was a favourite teacher of many and the students dubbed him “Mr. C”. He was a respected colleague and teacher’s favourite sub.
At Christmas of 1966, he and Kathy Russell met, were smitten with each other and married in 1968. Stephanie was born in 1969, Paul (Russ) in 1970 and Kurt in 1973.
He was involved in the Alberta Teachers Association, and for some years he drew political cartoons for the Lethbridge Herald.
He loved cooking ethnic dishes. His favourites were Chinese. He created his own recipes and many are family favourites.
At Hamilton he ran the Cosmic Comic Club, and was involved in the school paper. He was an avid photographer.
He was interested in the works of J.R.R. Tolkien and created a Hobbit unit for grade five which was purchased by Edmonton Public Schools. He also helped in the development of Arts Alive and Well in the Schools. He was closely involved with Neal Johnson and Art teachers and did shows with student’s work at the Art Gallery for the full month of May for many years.
He loved his family, and spent time with them, making costumes, attending soccer, dance, art shows and music. He was always glad to help with anything and was fully dedicated to them. Our Dad and Husband Forever.
To send a condolence, please visit www.salmonandsons.ca