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Paul Richard Bly

Paul Richard Bly obituary, St Paul, MN

Paul Bly Obituary

Loving father to two daughters and dear friend to many, lost his battle with depression on June 15th, 2016. He was loved by all who knew him, and is survived by those who loved him most: his daughters, Eliana (12) and Meron (9), his parents, Gloria Bly and Ronald Bly, his sister Sheila Bly, his partner Tara Plomski, and the mother of his children, Terri Bly. Born in Colorado Springs, CO, Paul served in the Navy Reserve while attending Texas Lutheran College in Seguin, TX. After college, Paul attended graduate school at Texas A&M, where he earned his Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

For over ten years, Paul served as a Talent Management leader at Thomson Reuters before transitioning to a similar position at H.B. Fuller earlier this year. At work, Paul was valued and beloved for his brilliant mind, generous spirit, and trustworthy character. At home, Paul was an avid runner, a baritone in the church choir, and a devoted father who was actively involved in every aspect of his daughters' lives.

The true definition of a good man, Paul's generous spirit extended to his family, friends, and the many charities he sponsored throughout his life.

His funeral services were held at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, 1935 St. Clair Avenue, St. Paul on Wednesday, June 22nd, at 7pm, with visitation and viewing at 6pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lutheran Social Services or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

To plant trees in memory, please visit theĀ Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette on Jun. 26, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul Bly

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Sandy Schiferl

June 13, 2021

I have memories of Paul growing up. He was very well loved and taken care of. He was always a "little man " both in his looks and behaviors. He was always very polite and would openly communicate with me, even as a young child. He always had the cutest grin. I never observed a rebellious spirit within Paul, even through the tough times. I didn“t see him often as an adult but I always looked forward to seeing him throughout the years. I loved him so much! Prayers for Sheila and Ron and his girls at this anniversary of his death.

Dave Burke

February 21, 2018

I was also a friend of Pauls while living in Tanzania 91/92. Paul was kind and humble but and he also had stamina. He is the only person I knew who could jog in the Tanzanian heat. I wish I was able to talk with you again.

Colman Msoka

March 28, 2017

Paul Richard Bly was an exchange student at the University of Dar es salaam Tanzania in 1991/2 and was my roommate. Was very lovely person. My thoughts are with his family, parents and fiends. I just noted this hard to believe thing today March 27/2027.Still remember his Colorado springs family especially his mom Gloria Bly.
We met in MN in ,1999 when I was in USA doing graduate studies.

Cindy Bassett

July 10, 2016

Ron and I were to sad to hear this news. Our family mourns with Ron, Gloria and Sheila......you are in our prayers. Ron and Cindy Bassett

June 30, 2016

Ron, Gloria,Sheila & the rest of his family & friends I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers. The Opitz Family

Lisa (Salituro) Freitas

June 23, 2016

Paul was my admissions counselor at TLC(U)--I first met him on a college visitation day when I was in high school. He was one of the main reasons I attended TLC(U). I am so very sorry to hear of his loss. I only knew him briefly, but he was very kind, easy to speak with, and had a pretty good sense of humor. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God's comfort, strength, and love continue to surround and carry you each day as you try to make it through.

Amy Stellmack

June 23, 2016

I only knew Paul for a relatively short time, but my experience with him was that he was a very thoughtful, caring person. He served as a mentor for our local I/O psychology professional society and was a presenter as well.

As a mentor, he was exceptional and really took the time to figure out what experience/guidance would be most valuable for his mentees. He also shared his thoughts and learnings with the other mentors. Not everybody that had been as successful as Paul would make the time to do this.

As a presenter, he was not afraid to talk about the difficult professional lessons he had learned along the way. Again, not everybody would put themselves in this vulnerable position in the service of helping others to learn.

I was so very sad to hear about his death. My thoughts are with his family, especially his daughters of whom he spoke very highly.

Eli Natale

June 23, 2016

Paul was a kind, bright, funny person when I met him about 15 years ago, and he remained that way. He accomplished many great things, but not for personal glory.

I remember telling him I couldn't believe he undertook and passed the CFA program. (The toughest exam in the Financial/Accounting world). He laughed in his humble way and made one of his funny expressions.

Paul built valuable rapport with people and succeeded through his good will, honesty, patience, dedication, and intelligence. A truly inspiring person, in life and in business!

I'm very grateful to have known Paul. The world is a better place because of him.

Pastor Stan Meyer

June 22, 2016

God wrap the arms of love and grace around Paul and bless the family who loved him so dearly. The whole TLU family expresses its love and condolences.

Betsy Blanche

June 22, 2016

I have known Paul since his first day on the job at Thomson Reuters more than 10 years ago. I was honored to work with him over these many years. He was so kind, had such integrity, had a great wit, sense of purpose, and thoughtful way about him. Paul, you will be greatly missed. I know you are with the angels now.

My heart goes out to Paul's family. We are all truly blessed to have known Paul.

Michele Browning

June 22, 2016

My heart is very heavy with the news of Paul's passing. From about age 5 I became great friends with Sheila as we grew up, and her family became an extension of mine, and vice versa. Paul was always like a big brother in my eyes, always eager to help and do things for Sheila and I through the time growing up. From games we'd play, to building huge forts made of blankets and chairs, that went the distance of their entire basement. So many memories growing up. The biggest thing about Paul is that He was the first person to really talk to me about Jesus. As a kid, he would make and give me cassette tapes of different Christian artists like Petra, Michael W Smith and Amy Grant. I still have a couple of those that he gave me as a kid. As with many, life takes us all in many different directions as we all grew up and moved to different places. I was thrilled to have him add me on Facebook and re-connect. I've loved seeing his posts about his girls, family, running and travels, and especially his love for his beautiful sister and my dear friend, over the years. Although life takes many of us in different directions and places, some always remain dear to your heart and leave an impact... And Paul and his family did that for me. I love all of you.. Gloria, Sheila and Ron, my sincere and deepest condolences of Paul's passing. If only so many miles did not exist, both my mother and I would have loved to be there today, but we are always here for you if ever needed. You are all in our thoughts and sending prayers of comfort and peace during this most difficult time. We love you...

Love,
Michele & Linda (and family)

Ayan Bhattacharya

June 22, 2016

Paul was a supportive listener and a strong advocate for me. I feel honored to have had a chance to work with him and my deepest condolences to his family.

Dimitra Manis

June 22, 2016

Paul, You were a fabulous friend and colleague who will be truly missed. You will be remembered as a wise, intellectual with a kind heart and caring spirit. A devoted father and a beautiful person. May God give rest to your soul in a place of light, in a place of repose, in a place of refreshment, where there is no pain, sorrow, and suffering but life everlasting. May your memory be eternal. Love always, Dimitra Manis

Patricia Insley

June 21, 2016

Paul was indeed a genuinely nice person. A pleasure as a colleague. My heartfelt condolences to his friends and family.

James Rule

June 21, 2016

I'm terribly sad to hear and to write this. I had the pleasure of meeting Paul several times whilst working at TR. I found him to be warm, engaging and passionate about what he did and he was good fun.RIP Paul

Jan Nolander

June 21, 2016

I very much enjoyed working with Paul at Thomson Reuters. Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss.

Jay Muthu

June 21, 2016

I worked with Paul at Thomson reuters and it was an absolute pleasure getting to know him and work with him. He was a very calm, composed and warm human being. I will miss you Paul

Nikki Miller

June 21, 2016

I met Paul through a professional organization and we quickly became friends. He was authentic and approachable, and we shared the same sense of humor. I always enjoyed our conversations and I knew him to be smart, thoughtful, and generous. He invested his time in others, always willing to lend an ear or provide professional guidance. He was a trusted mentor and remains a role model to me.

I was deeply saddened to learn about Paul's suffering. I did not know that he was affected by depression, as so many of us are. And I am so sad that this invisible disease has claimed my friend. I will miss him.

My heart and deepest condolences go out to Paul's children, family, and his friends.

June 21, 2016

To Paul's family - I am deeply sorry to hear of this loss. Paul was my manager at Thomson Reuters for several years. I loved working for him. His strong character, calm and even-keeled disposition, sense of humor, and respect for all was so apparent. I learned so much from him. He was a true role model. I am so, so sad about this and my heart goes out to you all.

Molly Hagen

Emma Pearson

June 21, 2016

To Paul's family and friends
I am a former PDI colleague and am so very saddened to hear this news about Paul. Please be gentle on yourselves as you try to make sense, to heal and mend, to continue.
with love, Emma Pearson

Tom & Janet Kraus

June 20, 2016

Sheila, we are so sorry for you and your family for the loss of your brother. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Darcy Ayen

June 20, 2016

We knew Paul as a young man at Ascension Lutheran in Colorado Springs. We are all saddened to hear this news and send our love & prayers for Sheila, Gloria, & Ron, all dear friends from years ago, but always Ascension family.

Kay Sterner

June 20, 2016

Sending love to all who feel this profound loss.

Shelby Burghardt

June 20, 2016

I had the pleasure of working with Paul at TR for 2+ years and I am incredibly saddened to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with Paul, his family and friends. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.

June 20, 2016

Paul was the definition of a genuinely nice guy. I had the pleasure of working with him as as a vendor providing services while he was at Thomson. He was always fair, open, and respectful. My condolences go to Terri and his daughters.

Ron Wolff

Elizabeth Bank

June 20, 2016

My thoughts and prayers to Paul's family & friends. I had the pleasure of working with Paul at TR. He was such a genuine leader that made everyone feel valued. I really enjoyed working with him. He will be greatly missed. May the care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace. My most sincere condolences.

Becky Fillinger

June 20, 2016

Paul was a sweet, generous, caring and very smart man. I enjoyed every minute of working with him at Thomson Reuters.

Sandy Schiferl

June 20, 2016

My deepest condolences to my sister, niece and the rest of Paul's immediate family.

Paul was special from the day he was born. He was kind and thoughtful as a little boy and grew up to be a fine man. Though life and distance separated us, I've always had a fondness for Paul. I enjoyed visiting with him at recent family gatherings.

Though our hearts are grieving for our loss it is important to know that God loves Paul more than we ever could, and God loves us all so much that He sent his only son, Jesus Christ, to pay for all of our sins by dying on the cross, being buried, and rising again on the third day. He now holds his arms wide open to accept anyone who is willing to accept His gift of salvation. Not of works, lest any man should boast, but by simply humbling ourselves and asking God to forgive us of our sins and be the Lord of our life.

Sandy Schiferl

June 19, 2016

I loved Paul. He was special from the day he was born. He was always a kind and thoughtful young boy and grew up to be a fine young man. Though the miles and life separated us, still I've always had a special fondness for him. I know that he loved his family deeply and I enjoyed visiting with him when we met up at family gatherings.

While we mourn our loss of this father, son, brother, friend, associate ect...., let our hearts be comforted by the knowledge that God loves Paul more than we ever could. And God loves us as well. So much so that knowing that we could never be good enough to work our way to Heaven, He sent his son to die on the cross to pay for all of our sins. Who conquered death and rose from the grave and now offers eternal life to all who will come to him and accept his gift of salvation.

Heather Doidge

June 19, 2016

I am deeply sorry for your loss. It has been many years since I worked with Paul at TLC - he was the kind of person that left a lasting impact because of his sincere kindness and love for others. Praying that you find peace during this difficult time.

Annette B

June 19, 2016

I worked with Paul at TR as a contractor and always appreciated him taking the time to stop and ask how I was doing... never treated me like a temporary employee. I ran into him on May 21 at Minnehaha Falls...so glad I was able to give him a hug. Such a kind person! I'm very sorry to have heard this, prayers to his family.

Donna Neumann

June 19, 2016

Paul was a great friend and a valued co-worker in his years at PDI. I hope you find some comfort in knowing what a great impact Paul had in his too-short life.

Marg Penn

June 19, 2016

So very sorry for this tragedy. I worked with Paul at PDI and always enjoyed his intelligence and quiet humor. His death is a huge loss to us all.

Courtney Peeler

June 19, 2016

My deepest sympathies to all of the Bly family. Your Paul was a light on the TLC campus as a student and in Admissions. May God continue to shine Paul's light through his family.

Lindsay Pugh

June 19, 2016

Many thoughts and prayers to you. Rest in peace and comfort Paul...

Barb Lindsey

June 19, 2016

Dear Bly family,

I can't imagine the enormity of your loss. I worked with Paul at Thomson Reuters and remember him for his smile, expertise, and his wonderful personality. He will be missed by many. May he rest in peace, and may all of you find solace and support to help you through the days ahead.

Chris Lewis

June 19, 2016

I loved when Paul visited the NYC office of Thomson Reuters.

His energy and light were infectious. Grateful to have known this wonderful man.

Love and light to all of those grieving.

Andy MacGovern

June 19, 2016

One of the kindest, thoughtful and brilliant guys I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Paul and I used to go running together along the Thames when we were both in London for the Thomson Reuters leadership team meetings....he would do most of the talking as I was blowing like a train!...evidence to his commitment to his running as well as his work. He brought so much to our team and was undoubtedly one of the smartest people I have ever worked with. He was also incredibly balanced and calm, even when things were starting to go a bit wobbly, he'd be the voice of reason and ask the questions we were all trying to articulate! We really miss you already mate.

Julie Schmidt

June 19, 2016

I'm so sorry. I have no words. I know the struggle every day to survive. My heart and prayers go to the family.

Wendi Bethel

June 19, 2016

Growing up with Paul will always be a fond memory. I'm so sad he lost his battle. Even though we have not lived close for years I have always enjoyed talking to him over Facebook and during reunions. Paul, you will be truly be missed. Love you.

Leigh Ann Lorenz

June 19, 2016

I worked with Paul in the Texas Lutheran Admissions Office after he graduated from TLU. He was a wonderful, caring, Christian man. My heart is heavy today. Know I am thinking of you all at this most difficult time and am keeping you in my prayers. Cherish your memories of Paul and tuck them away in your heart where he will live on through you.

Nicholas Creswell

June 19, 2016

A gentle, generous, kind and thoughtful soul. We miss you.

Nick xx

Lyn Branham

June 19, 2016

Paul was a gentleman in every sense of the word. He made it a point to get to know the people around him and showed genuine interest in them. He loved deeply and have great hugs. He will be missed so much. Love to his girls, his parents, Terry, Tara, and his dear, sweet sister.

Bridget

June 19, 2016

Paul was such a kind, caring, and gentle person. He touched so many lives is such a positive way.

June 19, 2016

Paul was my hero at the YMCA. What a dedicated runner and all around nice guy. He will be missed.

Katy

June 19, 2016

I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for bringing depression out of the shadows. Your willingness to be open about this horrible dosease will help many.

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Jun

22

Visitation

6:00 p.m.

Pilgrim Lutheran Church

1935 St. Clair Avenue, St. Paul, MN

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22

Funeral service

7:00 p.m.

Pilgrim Lutheran Church

1935 St. Clair Avenue, St. Paul, MN

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