Obituary of Paul Lusk

Ralph Paul Lusk, 45, of Davin, was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend who suddenly departed this life on Saturday, June 15, 2024. He was born on March 12, 1979, in Logan, the beloved son of Ralph L. and Shirley Lusk of Davin. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ezra and Kathleen Lusk, and his maternal grandparents, Carlos and Rosa Brown. Paul was a vibrant and caring individual who left a lasting impact on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. He graduated from Man High School in 1997. After spending some time living in Grafton, he chose to move back home to care for his parents, demonstrating his deep love and commitment to his family. Paul’s incredible sense of humor was cherished by all who knew him, and his laughter and jokes will be deeply missed. An avid outdoorsman, Paul found joy in hunting and fishing. He was also an amazing cook, delighting his family and friends with nutritious and delicious meals, often prepared with ingredients from his own garden. Paul took great pride in growing tall tomato vines and peppers, embodying his dream of living off the land in a remote cabin with a huge garden. Paul’s love for music was evident in his fondness for "outlaw country" and traditional Appalachian artists. His passion for sports was showcased by his collection of hats, shirts, and jerseys from his favorite teams: the Green Bay Packers, Boston Celtics, Dallas Mavericks, and anything from West Virginia. He faced a unique challenge this year when the Celtics met the Mavericks in the NBA Finals. Standing at 6’8”, Paul was affectionately known as “Big Paul” and “the Viking” by his friends. His towering presence and gentle nature often led to humorous comparisons to Bigfoot and Sasquatch sightings. Paul found peace and solace in the mountains, where he connected deeply with nature. He believed that the serenity of the outdoors provided a place to commune with God and find hope. His love for hiking and the natural world was a source of comfort and inspiration. Whenever we step onto a trail, retreat to the mountains, listen to birdsong, or are soothed by the gentle touch of nature, we will remember Paul and the happiness he found there. Paul’s warm and friendly personality allowed him to make and keep friends everywhere he went. He maintained friendships from elementary school through high school and throughout his adult life. He also enjoyed video games and built a global network of friends in the gaming community who have shared heartfelt messages about how much his friendship meant to them and how greatly he will be missed. Those left to cherish his memory are his parents, Ralph Sr. and Shirley Lusk of Davin, a sister, Rebecca and her husband Justin Childress of Fredericksburg, VA, two nephews, Luke and his wife, Mary Childress of Fredericksburg, VA, currently serving in South Korea, and Blake and his wife Angelina Childress of Fredericksburg, VA, currently serving in Germany. Paul was exceptionally proud of his nephews and loved hiking and visiting West Virginia State Parks with them and his sister as the boys grew up. Even though they now serve in the Army and live far away, Paul communicated with them often, sharing jokes and words of encouragement. He also leaves behind two very special friends, Bobby Pack, and Shawn Harper, along with a host of other relatives and friends. Paul Lusk’s legacy of kindness, humor, and love for the outdoors will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered. A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, August 17th, 2024, at the Krantz-McNeely Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Donald Lafferty officiating. A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to www.krantzmcneelyfuneralhome.com Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Krantz-McNeely Funeral Home at Man.