Paul Owen Savolainen

Paul Owen Savolainen, 88, of Raleigh, NC, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from complications of cancer treatments. He entered eternal rest with his Lord and Savior at Duke Raleigh Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Paul was born a proud Finn in Ishpeming, Michigan to Toivo and Martha (Jutila) Savolainen.

Upon graduating from Negaunee High School, Paul served his beloved country in the United States Coast Guard. Duty called him to Hawaii and the Great Lakes. Afterwards he worked as an industrial mechanic, troubleshooting production lines in the food and beverage industry. Employment relocation over his 38 years of loyal service brought him and his family to Winchester, Va; Syracuse, NY; and Hershey, PA.

He will be remembered for his sense of adventure. He'd spend family vacations catching loads of flounder in the Chesapeake Bay, taking the family waterskiing in every possible body of water, and driving endless hours on country roads for fun. Retirement gave him the freedom to enjoy the RV life with his wife. They traveled throughout the country and spent winters in Florida.

At home, Paul exercised his mechanical engineering mind and creativity in his cherished workshop. His machining skills gave him the ability to fix anything from engine to appliance and everything in between. Woodworking, however, was Paul's most treasured hobby. Throughout his life, he built many furniture pieces, clever household items, and thoughtful toys.

Paul was dedicated to his family. He generously shared his time with his grandchildren, attending countless recitals and games and spending hours boating and fishing with them. He was a patient teacher and passed his valuable skills, as well as his sense of adventure, down through the generations. His presence in the lives of his family members was a reliable and comforting constant.

He will be greatly missed by his wife of 66 years, Geraldine "Geri" Savolainen. He was the love of her life. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children: sons, Ronald "Ron" Savolainen (wife, Connie) and Toby Savolainen, and daughter, Paula Wiese (husband, Bob). He leaves behind one brother: David Savolainen (wife, Joyce). Paul leaves nine grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Paul is preceded in death by his son, Luke Savolainen, and his brother, Tom Belmore.

The family is deeply grateful to his oncologist, Dr. Sundhar Ramalingam, his attending physician at Duke Raleigh ICU, Dr. Van Dusen, the Duke Raleigh ICU staff, as well as the Duke Raleigh pastoral staff for the excellent and compassionate care they provided during Paul's brief illness. The family is also grateful for the compassionate and professional care provided by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home during a difficult time.

Paul will be placed to rest at the Love Garden at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Garner, NC where he faithfully attended. A private service will be arranged at a later date.

Funeral arrangements are by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home of Raleigh. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com