Paul Miner

Paul W. Miner, 83, of Missoula, Montana, passed away on October 2, 2026.

Paul was a man of genuine enthusiasm. To those who knew and loved him, he was affectionately known as "Mister Enthusiastic," a nickname that captured something immediately recognizable about him. His enthusiasm could be heard in his voice and seen in the way he approached the people and interests in his life. He was personable, compassionate, and sincerely interested in whomever he happened to be talking with.

Paul served in the United States Army, where he was firearms instructor, completing his Army service in 1970. His skill with firearms and his love of marksmanship would remain an important part of his life for decades to come.

Professionally, Paul spent his career in sales.

Outside of work, he was deeply involved in the shooting sports and the practical shooting community in Montana. At one time, Paul served as President of the Big Sky Practical Shooters Association, and over the years he served as Match Director for many competitions. He gave generously of his time and knowledge to the sport and to the people who shared his interest in it.

A firing range was truly Paul's element. Whether he was competing, directing a match, helping another shooter, discussing equipment, or simply enjoying a day among fellow enthusiasts, he was at home there. His interest extended to the loading bench as well, where he carefully loaded his own ammunition on his Dillon Square Deal reloading press.

Paul's enthusiasm was hardly limited to shooting. It was part of his personality. When Paul was interested in something, you knew it. When he spoke with someone, his animated voice and genuine engagement made that person part of the moment. Beneath that enthusiasm was a compassionate man who cared about the people with whom he crossed paths. That was especially evident in the close-knit Missoula neighborhood where Paul lived. During Paul's Hospice care, neighbor after neighbor came by asking about their friend Paul, sharing kind words, memories and condolences. It became abundantly clear just how much he had meant to the people around him. Paul was their guy, and his absence is deeply felt in the neighborhood he called home.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents. His immediate family circle had grown small over the years, but the circle of people whose lives he touched was considerably larger.

For those who knew him, there will always be places and moments that bring Paul immediately to mind. Few more fitting than a firing range, where Mister Enthusiastic was very much at home.

In accordance with Paul's wishes, he will be cremated. His ashes will be scattered in places meaningful to him, including Montana in the spring, returning a little of Paul to some of the places he loved.