Aptos

Paul Elerick, 86, died peacefully at home with his family by his side on August 12, 2024.

Paul was born in Rockford, Michigan, on November 8, 1937, to Doris and Franklin Elerick. One year later, he welcomed his adored brother, George. Raised by their devoted mother, Doris, a single parent and lifelong educator who taught in a one-room schoolhouse, Paul and George grew up with strong values of hard work and community service.

Paul's formative years in rural Rockford instilled in him a deep sense of civic duty. Working on his Uncle Dee's small farm, Paul developed a work ethic that would stay with him throughout his life. After graduating from high school, Paul enlisted in the Navy in 1955. He excelled as a communications sailor stationed at Midway Island and Wahiawa, Oahu. Paul often spoke of his experiences intercepting Morse code and hearing conversations from Russian naval vessels, which he found fascinating.

Returning from the Navy in 1959, Paul married Sharon, his wife of over 52 years. In 1961, he followed his brother George to San Jose, where he began a successful career with IBM and later Hitachi Data Systems, contributing to advancements in data and development centers.

In 1970, Paul and Sharon moved to Aptos, where they raised their children, Paul Jr. and Denise. Drawn by Seacliff Beach and the small-town community, Paul became deeply involved in local activities. He coached Mid County Pony League baseball, and his love for horses led him to bring a horse into the family for Denise.

Paul was an active participant in Santa Cruz County's community life, working on campaigns like Save Lighthouse Field and preserving Porter Sesnon/Wingspread. His leadership with the Aptos Neighbors Association helped shape the future of Aptos, fostering lasting friendships and community spirit. He loved Santa Cruz County and ran for Supervisor in the Second District In 1996. Although unsuccessful, he knocked on doors, met neighbors who shared his love of community and again forging friendships that he maintained for the rest of his life.

As Chair of the Democratic Central Committee of Santa Cruz County during the Gore Campaign years, Paul was a passionate advocate for democracy and sustainability. His involvement extended to the Sierra Club and local causes. If you ever attended a Pride parade or Aptos 4th of July Parade or the Aptos Homecoming parade you may have seen Paul driving one of his convertibles for various elected officials and parade grand marshals.

Paul's life was enriched by his four grandchildren, Jenna, Sean, Keith, and Emilia, and two great-grandchildren, Grant and Ivy.

Predeceased by his wife Sharon and brother George, Paul found love and adventure in his later years with his partner, Mary Kay. They traveled together, and Mary Kay was by his side in his final days, bringing him joy.

Paul lived to see the return of hope and joy in American politics, cheering for the Harris-Walz campaign during the Philadelphia rally on August 6th. He would have celebrated the bravery of Adam Kitzinger and the promise of unity at the Democratic National Convention.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Paul’s exceptional care team from Heartland Hospice. Paul was blessed with caring neighbors over 54 years in his dream home in his dream neighborhood.

A celebration of life will be held on November 9, 2024, at the Aptos Village Clubhouse, beginning at 1:00 PM. For questions or special accommodation needs, please email PBEcelebration@gmail.com.