Paul Dennis Docter, 85

Paul Dennis Docter passed away on June 28, 2025, in Kalispell, just a few weeks before his 86th birthday. Born on Aug. 3, 1939, in Brookfield, Wisconsin, Paul was a lifelong and loyal Green Bay Packers fan—through thick and thin, snow and more snow.

The son of Edmund and Margaret Docter, Paul grew up alongside his siblings, Charlotte, Yvonne, Don, and John. He was a man of strong opinions, sharp wit, and a soft spot for the things and people he loved most.

Paul enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: a round of golf, a cold drink with friends, a trip to the casino, a game of darts or horseshoes, and watching his grandkids’ sports. He was a proud father and a truly great grandfather—present, supportive, and always ready with a laugh or a story.

He especially loved spending time at the Montana Taphouse in Whitefish, where he could relax, catch up with friends, and savor good food (especially if it came with dessert). His fondness for sweets was legendary, and his devotion to his mom’s pumpkin pie recipe remained unmatched.

If you were on Paul’s good side, you knew it—he was kind, generous, and always had your back. If you weren’t, well, you probably knew that too. Either way, he made an impression.

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Wendy; his son, Ed and wife, Amy; his daughter, Maggie and husband, Ryan; his grandchildren, Luke and Brooklyn; his brother, John and wife, Natalie; and a large circle of friends who will miss his humor, honesty, and one-liners (most of which aren’t fit to print).

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Charlotte, Yvonne and Don, and his mother-in-law, Esther Allen.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held on what would have been his 86th birthday— Aug. 3—at 3 p.m. at The Montana Taphouse in Whitefish. It’s a fitting place to remember him, swap stories, and raise a glass to a life well-lived, on his own terms.

Austin Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Whitefish is caring for the family.