Paul Hodgert, a pioneering lifeguard, community leader, champion athlete, devoted father, and avid outdoorsman, passed away on June 11, 2026, just shy of his 94th birthday.

Paul was born in Washington State and grew up on Puget Sound in Gig Harbor. He graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

As a competitive swimmer in high school, he received a scholarship to Stanford University but was drafted into the army. He served in the U.S. army from 1952-60 during the Korean War.

As a competitive swimmer, Paul was stationed at the recreation pool, in charge of soldier recreation. His team at the recreation pool put on competitions and a water show for the soldiers that was attended by the president of Korea.

After his release from the army, Paul made his way to Santa Barbara, where he finished his studies at UC Santa Barbara.

He started his career as a lifeguard with the state of California and was stationed at Carpinteria State Beach.

As a lifeguard and competitor, he took up dory racing. Paul excelled in dory racing, along with his longtime racing partner Jeff White, and became one of California’s most accomplished dory racers.

Their victories earned widespread recognition, including appearances on “ABC’s Wide World of Sports.” Paul remained undefeated in dory competition throughout his racing career, cementing his place in Santa Barbara sports history.

In the late ’60s, Paul served as the supervisor of the Parks and Recreation Department for the city of Santa Barbara for 25 years, helping preserve and expand recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

During his time with the Recreation Department, Paul was pivotal in saving Santa Barbara’s iconic East Beach volleyball courts, ensuring a cherished local tradition would endure.

Volleyball was a lifelong passion of his and, as a longtime member of the legendary “Nooners” volleyball group, he was a fixture on East Beach for decades.

In recognition of his contributions to the sport and beach community, the city of Santa Barbara honored Paul with a dedication in his name at volleyball court #16, as part of the East Beach Sand of Fame.

Paul founded the Santa Barbara Junior Lifeguard Program, introducing generations of young people to ocean safety, swimming, discipline, leadership, and a love of the sea.

His impact continues through the Paul Hodgert Junior Lifeguard Scholarship, which provides annual scholarships for underprivileged youth to participate in the program.

Donations can be made to PARC Foundation, Santa Barbara, Summer Camp Scholarships.

Beyond his public accomplishments, Paul found great joy in the outdoors. He was an enthusiastic hunter, fisherman, and diver who loved sharing time in nature and with family and friends.

He was a talented cook, known for his famous venison enchiladas, tacos, and sourdough waffles. As an avid gardener, he took pride in cultivating his garden, reflecting the patience and dedication he brought to every aspect of life.

In 1992, Paul was inducted into the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to athletics, recreation, and community service.

Paul was also a family man. He married Michael Greer in 1963, had two daughters and maintained a lifelong friendship.

He went on to marry Valerie Rodgers in 1989 who brought two more daughters to the family. They remained married until his death. After being together for 50 years, Valerie followed Paul in death on June 13, 2026.

Paul was preceded in death by his sister Sharon Corboy and is survived by his daughters, Kimberly Evangelatos, Tori Hren, stepdaughter Lisa Neustadt, and grandsons Jackson Hren and Hayden Hren.

There will be a memorial/celebration of life for Paul in Santa Barbara mid-August.