Paul Nicholas Papania

Paul Nicholas Papania, 77, of Lake Charles passed away at 1:33 PM on Thursday, September 12, 2024 in his residence.

Born and raised in our community, Paul was a proud graduate of Landry high School, where he showcased his athletic talents by playing both baseball and basketball. After high school, he furthered his education at McNeese State University.

Paul’s first job was working at Kroger for several years before he began his career as an operator at Cities Service, where he spent the next 13 years. Afterward, he became self-employed. In his earlier years, Paul also served as the manager of the family restaurant, Papania’s, on 5th Avenue, where his warm demeanor and engaging personality made patrons feel right at home. Most recently he helped his brother at Seafood Palace while continuing to sell produce, earning the nickname “Produce Paul.” He was a devoted member of St. Margaret Catholic Church as well as a loving and devoted husband. 

He was known for his selflessness, always ready to lend a helping hand and give the shirt off his back to those in need. He never met a stranger and made friends wherever he went.

Recognizable by his signature attire-a simple t shirt, denim overalls, and a hat-he could often be found in the fields picking watermelon, where he found joy and fulfillment.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 57 years, Sandy Papania of Lake Charles; daughters, Tammy Kober (David) of Lacassine, Paula Bourque (Jason) of Lake Charles, and Cindi Langley (Jean) of Lake Charles siblings, Joanne Schwem (Dan), Mike Papania (Ellen), Luke Papania (Debbie), Chris Papania (Sandra), and David Papania all of Lake Charles; grandchildren who affectionately call him “Silly Monkey”, Kourtney Ellis (Jacob), Tori Craddock (Josh), Raven Langley, Miranda Long, Kennedy Guidry (Dustin), Breanna Bourque, Brennon Langley, and Gabby Bourque; great grandchildren who also call him “Silly Monkey”, Nadia Langley, Blaine Craddock, Emmett Langley, Evynn Ellis, Easton Ellis, Jhett Craddock, and Kenzleigh Craddock; and his furry companion, JoJo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rosalie and Lucas Papania and a son, Paul Papania, Jr. 

In honoring Paul’s memory we invite all who knew and loved him to celebrate his life at 3:00 PM on Sunday, September 15, 2024 in the Johnson Funeral Home chapel. Monsignor Harry Greig will officiate. Cremation will follow and inurnment will be in Consolata Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will begin at 12:00 PM until the start of the service with a rosary being recited at 2:00 PM.

Honorary pallbearers will be: David Kober, Jason Bourque, Jean Langley, Jacob Ellis, Dustin Guidry, Josh Craddock, Danny Schwem, and Jeff Papania.