Paul L. Swearingen

Paul Lee Swearingen passed away too soon on September 22, 2017, at Midland Hospice in Topeka, Kansas at 72 years of age. Paul was totally dedicated to his lifelong passion—teaching young people English, Spanish, photography and journalism, while acting as a counselor and adviser. Paul's long, productive and rewarding career spanned from 1967 to 2010, when he retired.

Paul rose from humble beginnings…working on his parents' farm until he enrolled in college. He was a fervent and dedicated scholar, garnishing the Salutatorian award at his graduation from junior college. Paul excelled in his studies at Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia, Kansas while working part-time as a radio station announcer. Committed to higher learning and determined to reach his full potential, he attended night and summer classes until he was awarded a Master's Degree in English.

Paul served as an advocate for students and fellow teachers alike. He was an active and vocal member of teachers' unions throughout his career, often bringing to light unauthorized and unfair practices promulgated by school districts and administrators.

During his lifetime, Paul pursued several interests…extensive and impressive stamp and coin collections, to name a couple. He was an avid photographer, an accomplished numismatist and was recognized in the trade as an expert judge of genuine and counterfeit coins. He served for many years as the publisher of a national radio club's monthly magazine. He was an active member of Modern Woodmen of America and supported their activities wherever he lived.

Paul struggled mightily against the bonds of cancer for five years before he finally succumbed. Never once did he utter a word of complaint during this painful, frustrating and prolonged battle. During his final years of life, Paul encouraged others to take this monster…cancer…seriously…and schedule precautionary tests regularly and frequently. Paul was simply not ready to leave this world…so many tasks unfinished and so many goals unrealized. May he now rest in peace for eternity.

Paul was cremated and a visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 30, 2017, at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Avenue, Topeka, Kansas 66605.

To share a memory of Paul or to leave a special message of condolence, visit the guestbook below.