Paul Gans

Paul Stephen Gans, a devoted educator, entrepreneur, and family man, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026, in Vancouver, Washington. He was 90 years old.

Born on November 2, 1935, in Brooklyn, New York, Paul grew up with a deep appreciation for learning and community. His academic journey began at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology in 1960. He continued his education at New York University, obtaining a Master of Arts in Education in 1962. Later, he pursued a Master of Science in Natural Sciences from Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona, in 1967. He became a member of Sigma Gamma Epsilon, the National Honor Society in Earth Sciences in 1967 and a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the Honor Society in Education in 1970. These achievements laid the foundation for his lifelong passion for teaching and sharing knowledge.

Paul served his country with honor as an Airman 2nd Class in the United States Air Force. During his four years of service, he was stationed at Mitchel Air Force Base in New York and served in the European Theater. His time in the military instilled discipline and resilience that would guide him throughout his life.

For over two decades, Paul dedicated himself to shaping young minds as a high school teacher. His impact was profound—he taught more than 6,000 students during his career and left an indelible mark on their lives. At Ontario High School, he served as the Coordinator for Gifted and Talented Education and founded the Photography Club. This initiative eventually led to the establishment of a formal photography class within the school curriculum. Paul also organized week-long geological field trips to destinations like the Grand Canyon, providing students with unique opportunities to explore science beyond the classroom. He also contributed his knowledge of photography to young people as a project leader in a local 4-H Club.

After retiring from teaching, Paul embraced entrepreneurship with characteristic enthusiasm and determination. He immersed himself in the burgeoning personal computer industry and went on to establish his own successful corporation. This new chapter allowed him and his beloved wife Marcia to travel extensively around the world—a pursuit they both cherished deeply.

Paul’s interests were as diverse as they were vibrant. A passionate photographer and avid gardener, he found joy in capturing life’s beauty through his lens and nurturing it through his hands. His love for food encompassed cooking, dining out, shopping for ingredients, and sharing meals with loved ones. He also enjoyed coin collecting and games—especially poker—and remained a loyal Dodgers fan since their days in Brooklyn.

Paul had strong faith in G-d and in the tenets of Judaism. This is reflected the art and Judaica throughout his and Marcia's home as well as the traditions and learning passed on all the way to his grandchildren.

In later years, Paul continued to embody generosity and compassion by volunteering with the local homeless population after learning about their struggles. Well into his eighties, he taught cooking skills while offering friendship through listening and conversation—an extension of his lifelong commitment to helping others.

Paul is survived by Marcialee Gans (née Landman), his loving wife of 65 years; daughters Jackie Ramsdell (née Gans) and her husband George Ramsdell; Davina Gans; grandsons Joshua Ramsdell (and wife Vanessa Ramsdell), Philip Ramsdell, Aiden Ramsdell; and great-grandson Hunter Ramsdell. He was also a foster grandpa to several Gans girls who called him Pops.

Paul Gans will be remembered as a man who lived with purpose—dedicated to education, family, faith, and community. His legacy of kindness, curiosity, as well feisty, outspoken determination will continue to inspire all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his loss. A Graveside Service will be held on June 29, 2026, from 03:00 PM to 04:00 PM at Northwoods Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 16407 NE 15th Avenue, Ridgefield. A Shiva will be held on June 29, 2026, from 07:00 PM to 08:00 PM at Congregation Kol Ami, 7800 NE 119th St., Vancouver. A Shiva will be held on June 30, 2026, from 07:00 PM to 08:00 PM at Van Mall Retirement, 7808 NE 51st St., Vancouver.