Paul R. Bestgen

A gathering to celebrate the life of Paul R. Bestgen, 72, of Willoughby, will be held from 4-8 PM on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at Davis-Babcock Funeral Home, 4154 Clark Avenue, Willoughby.

Mr. Bestgen passed away Friday, February 7, 2025.

Born April 17, 1952 in East Cleveland, he had lived in Kirtland, Athens and Chardon before moving to Willoughby in 1983.

He was a graduate of Kirtland High School and earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Ohio University in Athens.

Before his retirement, he owned a graphic arts business in Willoughby. Prior to that he worked for newspapers in Mentor, Painesville, and Athens. He and his wife, Margaret, also published a newspaper in Kirtland for nine years.

Paul was a seasonal employee with the Cleveland Indians/Guardians and formerly with the Lake County Captains. He also volunteered as a Redcoat at Playhouse Square, starting in 2011 and was a Charter Member of Celebration Lutheran Church in Chardon.

Survivors are his sons, Andrew (Melissa) Bestgen of Eastlake and Matthew of Willoughby; grandchildren, the lights of his life, June and Henry; brother, Bradley (Janice) Bestgen of Kirtland; sister-in-law, Cindy VanDemark of Bowling Green; nephews, Brett (Ashley) Bestgen and Christopher (Michelle) Bestgen; great niece, Maelyn; great-nephew, Greyson; and a bunch of extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret VanDemark; his daughter, Elizabeth; and his parents, Robert and Jeanne Bestgen.

Private family interment will be at Knollwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to Celebration Lutheran Church, PO Box 249, Chardon, OH 44024-0249.