Reverend Dr. Paul Walter Devantier

Reverend Dr. Paul Walter Devantier, age 79, of Appleton, was called to his eternal home in Christ on November 30, 2025. Born March 25, 1946, Paul lived a life devoted to his Savior, his family, and his calling to ministry. He was preceded in death by Walter Devantier (Father), Ella Devantier (Mother), Ruth (Sister), and Kathleen (Sister).

Paul was united in marriage to Ellen Devantier (née Stapel), his loving wife of 55 years. Together they were blessed with five children: Richard, John (wife Melissa), Andrew, Katie (husband Johnny) and Susie. Paul was a proud grandfather to Jonathan, Christopher, Ella, Sam, Lucy, Imani, Iliza, Willa, Elijah, Aiden, Landon, and Matthias, who brought him immense joy and laughter. Paul and Ellen also welcomed more than 80 foster children into their home throughout their marriage.

During his career, Devantier was General Manager of KFUO and KFUO-FM in St. Louis and was executive director of communications for The Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod. Since 1974 Paul was the speaker on the internationally syndicated radio program, “By The Way,” and authored five “By The Way” books. A strong advocate for adoption and foster care, Paul was privileged to be national director of the Adoption Awareness Program headquartered in Washington, D.C. 

Paul is a native of Wausau. He and his wife, Ellen, lived in Minocqua in semi-retirement where Paul was vacancy pastor at several LCMS congregations, including Rock of Ages in Minocqua and Faith in Mercer. 

A funeral service will be held at Faith Lutheran Church (601 E. Glendale Ave, Appleton, WI 54911) on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11 a.m. with visitation starting at 9 a.m. A burial at Immanuel Lutheran Church Cemetery (N1660 Leafy Grove Rd, Merrill, WI 54452) will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 11 a.m., meeting inside the church first. Friends and family are invited to gather in thanksgiving for Paul’s life and the promise of the resurrection at either or both of these services.