Paul Raymond Tolley

May 4, 1954 - October 27, 2020

 

 

Paul Raymond Tolley was called home Tuesday October 27th 2020 in Upland CA.  Paul was born May 4th 1954 in Riverside CA.  He was the 5th child of seven children.

He was preceded by his parents; Andrew Preston Tolley and Oneta Floreda Cain and a brother Ronald.  He is survived by brothers; Woody Tolley, Bill Toley, sisters; Nancy Puritnton, Sue Lauritzen, Barbara Ann Clabaugh and many nieces and nephews who loved their uncle Paul dearly.  Also survived by his lifelong companion of 32 years; Grace Vargas and her sons; Tony Vargas, Henry Vargas Michael and his family as they too loved Paul dearly.

Paul grew up in Rubidoux in a three bedroom, one bath home he shared with nine family members.  Needless to say they were a close family.  The boys shared one room and the girls shared another.  He lived on a large lot with horses, chickens, pheasants, a ferret, a goat named Elmer, snakes in cages, cats and a dog.  It was a child's paradise.  The boys were always building something fascinating to play on.

He lived one house down from an empty lot where most days his family and friends played football and baseball.  When a baseball was hit into the neighbor's yard, everyone would run and hide.  That night was not kind and would keep the balls.  There were strange radio noises that were heard from the neighbors house and Paul convinced his sibling that he was a Russian Spy.

As a young child his nightly companion was an encyclopedia which he enjoyed reading.  His siblings were always fascinated with his amazing knowledge and facts.  Paul's father shared his love of the outdoors with him and it was on those fishing and hunting trips he learned to love and respect the outdoors.  He was taught to be strong and self reliant to face life's challenges.

Paul graduated from Rubidoux High School in June of 1972 where he thrived on the process of acquiring skills and knowledge, as he had a passion for learning.  After graduation he moved to Palm Desert with his sister Barbara Ann where he began working in construction which he enjoyed because he loved working with his hands.  There together with friends they enjoyed camping trips and riding motorcycles.  Paul ws always entertaining, his personality and characteristics were amazing and he was just someone you loved being around and spending time with.

While living in the desert Paul's life took a sudden change when he suffered a life threatening motorcycle accident which left him with a permanent disability.  Life took on a new meaning for him with challenges.  As he faced new trials and tribulations, he battled and overcame those challenges with the help of the Lord.  Paul knew the Lord and never hesitated to call on him through prayer for guidance and help.  Paul had the most positive and uplifting attitude even though life was difficult.  We are grateful to the exemplary life he shared with his family, he loved family.

Paul was blessed to have had a special relationship with his extended family, the Vargas who loved and cared for him.

Paul, you have truly been a blessing in our lives.

We all love you dearly.

Families are forever!!!