03/08/2026
Paul J. Czeschin
December 16, 1936 - March 5, 2026
Paul J. Czeschin,89, of Washington, passed away on March 5, 2026. Mr. Czeschin, son of the late Gustave Czeschin and Ella nee Peters, was born on December 16, 1936, in Washington. He received his education from Washington High School and Ranken Technical College. On June 2, 1962, he was united in marriage to Sylvia Hellebusch at St. Ignatius Church in Concord Hill. Paul was a platoon leader in the Army Reserves. He was also a member of the American Legion Honor Guard for many years, demonstrating his commitment to both his country and his community.
Paul was a resident of Washington his entire life. He worked at his dad’s blacksmith shop, where he learned welding, a skill for which he became well known throughout the community. His dedication to his craft and his hometown remained evident in everything he did.
He began working at McDonnell Aircraft at the start of the space program in 1957 as a Tooling Engineer. Over the years, his expertise contributed to many important projects, and he retired from there in 1995, finishing with a C-17 transport plane, his pride and joy.
During the 1960s, Mr. Czeschin was a dedicated member of the Elks Ritual Team, earning National Awards in recognition of his excellence. He also served on the board of the Washington Historical Society, where he contributed to numerous projects and improvements, notably the restoration of the A.M.E. Church. In addition, Mr. Czeschin volunteered as a driver for the American Cancer Society, providing transportation for patients from Franklin County to their medical appointments.
He had many hobbies throughout his life, but the ones he loved most were his TR-3 sports car, boating, and traveling with family and friends. He and Sylvia traveled with the “wild weekend tours group” for 40 years, creating cherished memories and lifelong friendships. These adventures were a source of joy, laughter, and camaraderie, reflecting Paul's zest for life and his appreciation for shared experiences.
Paul was a loving husband, father, and grandfather that set strong religious and work ethics. He had a silly sense of humor and could do a Benny Hill impression better than anyone. He loved life and everyone loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Earl Czeschin and wife Cara; sister, Ruth Terschluse and husband Buxie; son-in-law, Charles Hart and brother and sister-in-law, Walter Hellebusch and wife Marilyn.
Among his survivors are his wife Sylvia Czeschin of Washington; four children, Ralph Czeschin and wife Melinda of Krakow, Lynn Hart of Washington, Rodney Czeschin and wife Melissa of Washington, and Luanne Knapp and husband Tim of St. Louis; nine grandchildren, Katie Czeschin, Jacon Czeschin and wife Amber, Samantha Hamann and husband Patrick, Allison Hoover and husband Andy, Erin Czeschin, Mackenzie Czeschin, Hailey Czeschin, Gus Knapp and wife Tara, and Marni Knapp; three great-grandchildren, Auggie Czeschin, Nora Hamann, and Ellie Hamann; brothers and sisters-in-law, Carl Hellebusch and wife Laverne, Gerard Hellebusch and wife Sue, Grace Thornton and husband Dan, and Mary Kalish and husband Michael; other relatives and many friends.
A memorial mass will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the St. Francis Borgia Church. Memorial donations can be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital or the Washington Historical Society.
Arrangements in care of Nieburg-Vitt, Miller Funeral Home, Washington.
