Paul “Puma” Buhl Obituary, Death – Lancaster, PA Softball Star Passes Away at 58
It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Paul “Puma” Buhl, a beloved figure in the Lancaster, PA community and an indomitable force within the BPA Softball league. Paul passed away on December 11, 2024, at the age of 58, after a courageous and hard-fought battle with a long-standing illness. His death has left a deep sense of loss among his family, friends, and the countless teammates and community members whose lives he touched with his infectious spirit, leadership, and unrelenting positivity.
Born on June 7, 1966, in Lancaster, PA, Paul Buhl spent his entire life in the town he loved. His passion for his community and the people in it was only matched by his devotion to the game of softball. Known to many as “Puma” – a nickname earned for his quick reflexes, agility, and aggressive playstyle – Paul became a fixture in the Lancaster sports scene. His reputation as a fierce competitor, a humble leader, and a caring friend extended far beyond the softball diamond. As a key player in the BPA Softball league, Paul’s legacy is built not only on his athleticism but also on the respect and admiration he earned from his teammates, coaches, and even his opponents.
For decades, Paul was a central figure in his community, not just for his athletic achievements, but for the person he was. His life and character were defined by his love for his family, his unwavering commitment to helping others, and his passionate involvement in a variety of causes that brought positive change to the Lancaster area. To those who knew him, Paul Buhl was a rare individual – someone who could combine a larger-than-life presence with a deeply genuine humility. His passing leaves a void that will never be filled, but his influence and legacy will continue to inspire those who were privileged to have known him.
The Heart of Lancaster: A Legacy of Athletic Excellence and Community Involvement
Paul’s name became synonymous with excellence in the BPA Softball league. His incredible skills, his love for the game, and his fierce competitiveness made him a stand-out player on numerous championship-winning teams. From the moment he stepped onto the field, Paul was known for his unmatched reflexes, powerful batting, and ability to execute plays with precision. His agility and ferociousness in the field earned him the nickname “Puma” – a testament to his speed, power, and determination. But it wasn’t just his athletic prowess that set Paul apart; it was his leadership, his work ethic, and the way he inspired those around him to elevate their own performance.
Over the years, Paul built a reputation not just as a player, but as a mentor and leader to countless younger athletes in the league. He believed in the power of teamwork and selflessness, often emphasizing the importance of putting the success of the group above personal accolades. While Paul had the talent to seek individual glory, he always chose to support his teammates, showing them the ropes and providing guidance when needed. His leadership extended beyond the field, where he took on the role of a motivator and an example for younger players to follow. To many, Paul was more than just a teammate; he was a coach, a counselor, and a friend.
Outside the sport, Paul’s community involvement made him a beloved figure in Lancaster. As a local contractor, he worked tirelessly on projects that improved the town he called home. His reputation as a hard worker who could always be relied upon was known throughout the area. Paul wasn’t just interested in building homes or businesses – he was interested in building relationships. His genuine care for the well-being of others made him a trusted figure in the Lancaster community.
Paul’s impact extended beyond construction work and athletics; he was deeply involved in charitable endeavors, often volunteering his time and resources to local causes. From organizing fundraisers to helping with local youth programs, Paul gave back to his community in every way he could. He was especially passionate about supporting young athletes, and he became a key advocate for the BPA Softball league’s youth scholarship fund. The fund, which supports the next generation of softball players in Lancaster, was something Paul held dear to his heart. His legacy will live on in the continued success of this initiative, which he championed throughout his life.
A Family Man and Community Pillar
Above all, Paul’s greatest joy came from his family. Paul was a devoted husband to his wife, Lisa, and a loving father to their two children, Emily and Jake. Paul’s love for his family was evident to everyone who knew him; he was proud of his children and took immense joy in their accomplishments, always eager to watch them grow into young adults. His unwavering support and dedication to his family were what truly defined him as a man.
In addition to his immediate family, Paul had a large circle of friends, teammates, and extended family who all looked up to him as a father figure, mentor, and confidant. To his close friends, Paul was a constant source of laughter, guidance, and strength. He was always ready with a word of encouragement or a helping hand, no matter the circumstances. His ability to listen, to empathize, and to offer advice with genuine care made him the kind of person that others could count on without hesitation.
Paul’s relationship with his wife, Lisa, was one built on mutual respect, love, and shared values. They supported one another through every challenge and celebrated each triumph together. Their bond was unshakable, and Paul’s greatest wish was to see his children thrive, knowing that his love and support would always be with them.
A Courageous Battle: Paul’s Final Days
As his health began to decline due to complications from a long-standing illness, Paul’s bravery and resilience became even more apparent. Despite the hardships he faced, Paul never lost his positive outlook or his determination to remain active and engaged with his family and friends. He continued to support his team, offer guidance to his children, and show love to his wife, all while dealing with the daily challenges posed by his illness. Those who were closest to him were inspired by his ability to endure such hardship with grace and strength.
Even in his final days, Paul was surrounded by the people who loved him most. His family rallied around him, offering support, comfort, and prayers as they navigated the difficult path that led to his passing. Throughout it all, Paul remained steadfast in his love for his family and community, a true testament to the kind of person he was. He did not let his illness define him; rather, he continued to live his life with the same intensity, passion, and joy that had always been a part of who he was.
A Celebration of Life
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Paul “Puma” Buhl will be held on December 14, 2024, at St. James Church in Lancaster, PA. The service will bring together family, friends, teammates, and the broader Lancaster community to remember and honor a man whose impact on their lives was immeasurable. Following the memorial service, there will be a private burial, where Paul will be laid to rest among the community he loved so dearly.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the BPA Softball league’s youth scholarship fund, an initiative that Paul passionately supported throughout his life. This fund ensures that young athletes in Lancaster have the opportunity to pursue their dreams, just as Paul did. It is a fitting tribute to a man whose love for the game of softball and his commitment to supporting others will continue to impact future generations.
A Legacy That Will Never Fade
Paul “Puma” Buhl’s passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew him. His contributions to the sport of softball, his unwavering dedication to his community, and his kindness and generosity will not be forgotten. Paul’s legacy is one of love, hard work, and service to others. His larger-than-life presence, infectious energy, and compassionate spirit will live on in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
He leaves behind a lasting legacy in both his family and the Lancaster community. The youth who were mentored by him, the teams who played alongside him, and the friends who knew him as a source of strength and love will carry his memory forward. Paul’s impact will continue to be felt in the countless lives he touched, and his legacy will inspire future generations to lead with kindness, compassion, and a fierce love for the things they hold dear.
Paul “Puma” Buhl will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on, forever etched in the hearts of those who loved him.
