Wesley Warren Paajanen

Sept 5, 1942 -

June 13, 2020

Born on Sept. 5, 1942, Wesley Paajanen was the third of four children born to Walter and Ida Paajanen. He grew up in New Hampshire, helping with his dad's business and race car, hunting deer and playing baseball. He graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1964 with his degree in mechanical engineering. After meeting his wife, Helen, at the Finn Hop Finnish Folk Dances, they married and moved to Alaska "to see what it was like for three months" in 1966. They settled in Eagle River, Alaska, where they built their own home and raised three children and welcomed four grandchildren into the world. Working briefly for the Army Corps of Engineers, he then worked for the FAA, where he retired in 1994. During his retirement years, he started his own business replacing water well pumps. Additionally, he volunteered his time helping with various mechanical issues at his local church, Church in the Wildwood, and at Solid Rock Bible Camp in Soldotna, Alaska. He died peacefully at his home on Saturday, June 13, 2020.

Survived by his wife, Helen; daughter, Alana Davis and husband, Lenn; grandchildren, Aaron, Abel and Aeia; son, Daniel Paajanen and wife, Jenny; granddaughter, Anabella; daughter, Lori Paajanen; brother, Winslow; sisters, Viola and Annabella and their families.

There will be a celebration of life service officiated by Pastor Dan Walsh on Thursday, June 18, 2020, at 4 p.m. at Eagle River Grace, 17850 Birchtree Street.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Solid Rock Bible Camp. Wes served on their board for many years and has been involved in many behind the scenes operations there. They have been good friends for years and we know they were near and dear to his heart. For information on how to donate, please contact the family.