BLACKMON, Paul Irvin

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ March 12, 2007 In Memory of Paul Blackmon, born June 5, 1923, in Sunset, Texas, died Feb. 27, 2007, in Pinetop. He was a fireman, veteran, missionary, grandfather, father and a Blue Ridge sports fan. What is a fireman? He's the guy next door. He's a man's man with the sharp memory of a little boy who never got over the excitement of engines, sirens, smoke and danger. He's a guy like you and me with hopes, worries, and unfulfilled dreams. Yet he stands taller than most of us...he's a fireman. He puts it all on the line when the bell rings. A fireman is at once the most fortunate and least fortunate of men. He's a man who savors life because he has seen too much of death. He's a gentle man because he has seen too much of the awesome power of violent forces out of control. He's a man responsive to a child's laughter because his arms have held too many small bodies that will never laugh again. He's a man who appreciates the simple pleasures of life...hot coffee held in numbed, unbending fingers...the flush of fresh air pumping through smoke and fire convulsed lungs...a warm bed for bone and muscle compelled beyond feeling...the camaraderie of brave men...the divine peace of selfless service and a job well done in the name of all men. He doesn't wear buttons, wave flags or shout obscenities, and when he marches it is to honor a fallen comrade. He doesn't preach the brotherhood of man...he lives it...- Author Unknown No services are planned at this time. For those who have special memories and would like to sign an online guest book or send a private condolence for the family, visit Web site www.owensmortuary.com.