In Memory of Paul Peloquin: A Beloved Volunteer Who Shone Like a Light in the Dark
April is National Volunteer Month, a time to honor those who selflessly give their time, energy, and heart to our community. This year, as we celebrate the countless volunteers who make Columbia Springs what it is, we also find ourselves grieving the loss of one very special soul – Paul Peloquin, who passed away in early March.
For several years, Paul was more than just a volunteer; he was a beacon of light. His joy was infectious, and his heart was as big as his talent. He had the rare gift of making everyone around him feel seen, heard, and valued. Shelly, Education Program Coordinator, shared it best when she said Paul was “delightfully cheery to be around and very supportive of all the members of our community, young and old.” His positivity, his presence – Paul made us all feel like we mattered, and we can’t help but feel that absence now.
Paul’s camera was an extension of himself, capturing the world around him with deep care and reverence. The photos in this post, and many more you’ve seen across our website and social media, are his. With each click of the shutter, Paul gave us a gift – a snapshot of our world through his eyes. He didn’t just take pictures. He captured moments of wonder, of beauty, of connection. He saw Columbia Springs not just as a place, but as a living, breathing story – one he told with grace and generosity.
“I worked with Paul a couple of times; and it was clear to me how dedicated he was to encouraging all ages. I greatly admired his willingness to show up, rain or shine, and not only uplift myself and the students, but to be a real interactive part of the field trips and events. It was a true joy to see him with his camera knowing he was capturing the essence and beauty of the day as only he could.”
Paul’s dedication went beyond simply taking pictures. He was part of the heart of every event he captured, a quiet but constant source of encouragement, always eager to share his knowledge, his passion for the environment, and his love for the people around him. He wasn’t just present with his camera – he was present with his heart.
“This hurts. We worked with him and appreciated him together – don’t feel like you have to mourn him alone. Our community has and will continue to feel this loss in profound ways—his joy, his passion for the environment, and his deep collection of photos documenting the happenings around Columbia Springs are all legacies that are sure to outlive us all. Paul—we simply cannot thank you enough. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
“Paul wasn’t just a photographer – he was a friend, a mentor, and a true part of the Columbia Springs family. His legacy will live on through his images, but also through the love he shared with everyone he met. We are deeply grateful for the time we had with him, and he will forever remain in our hearts. Columbia Springs has lost a shining light, but his spirit will continue to guide us.”
As we reflect on Paul’s life, we invite you to share your own memories, photos, and thoughts about him. We’re in the process of finding ways to honor his memory, and your contributions would mean the world to us.
Thank you, Paul. You will always be a part of our story.
With love and gratitude,
The Columbia Springs Team