Paul Davis Walquist, born Sept. 20, 1927, in Los Angeles, quietly passed at home Dec. 19, surrounded with love. Vi, his devoted wife of 65 years whom he cherished, was by his side together with their children, Christine Reich and John Walquist.
Paul, a loving husband, father and grandfather, is also survived by son-in-law Paul Reich, daughter-in-law Eva Walquist and nine adoring grandchildren.
Paul fulfilled his military obligations by serving four years in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1954 during the Korean War. He went through flight training in Pensacola, Florida, and Corpus Christi, Texas. Upon receiving his wings in 1952, Paul and Vi married.
He was assigned to a jet fighter squadron and after training for six months left for the Korean Peninsula. He flew over 100 combat missions while aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Philippine Sea, and received numerous military awards and decorations during his time of service.
After Paul’s discharge from the Navy, he applied to the University of Southern California Dental School, was accepted and graduated in 1959. He opened a dental office in Pacific Palisades and spent the next 37 years in private practice, performing all phases of general dentistry.
Paul was elected president of the Western Dental Society, a group of about 800 dentists, and served five years as chairman of the Peer Review Committee. Paul was also a dental consultant for Connecticut General Insurance Company, advising dentists from all over the United States.
At a young age, Paul was asked to become a Fellow of the American College of Dentists. Less than 3 percent of dentists are selected as fellows for their significant contributions in dentistry.
In his retirement, Paul and Vi became very active in the local American Legion Post 283. Paul was proud to contribute to the Legionnaires mission to serve veterans, active military, their families and community. He rose through the ranks and was elected commander in 2011.
Paul and Vi enjoyed playing tennis at the Riviera Tennis Club and traveling the world. They appreciated coming home to the Palisades where they raised their family and made their life. Paul also mastered the most beautiful calligraphy, which he shared for the benefit of his family.
A memorial service will be held in early January. We will miss his loving heart and warm smile.
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