Paul B. Guiberteau

Paul B. Guiberteau peacefully passed away Wednesday, July 23, while holding his beloved wife, Colette's hand. Paul was born in France, April 16th, 1922. At the age of 17 he started working for a French company that sent him to Nigeria to replace employees sent to war. In December 1942, Paul volunteered in the Free French Army in London and graduated from the military academy as a lieutenant, later rising to the rank of captain. He then took part in the Allied Invasion of Normandy. He was awarded the 'Croix de Guerre' at Brest in September 1944. After Brest, he joined the American C.I.C. (counter-intelligence corps) where he made several life-long friends. In 1949, Paul married Colette Morin. In 1950 their daughter Michele was born. They established their home in Nigeria, where they lived for six years. In 1956, they moved to Colorado after much encouragement by Colette's sister, Maité, and Paul's C.I.C. friends. While working full-time at Midwest Steel as an accountant, Paul attended the University of Denver, where he received a master degree in education in 1969. He then began his teaching career in the Cherry Creek school district as a French and Spanish teacher. Paul delighted in teaching his young students and making friends with his colleagues. Summers, he and Colette and daughter Michele enjoyed camping in the Rockies and traveling the world. Paul & Colette had a wonderful retirement and enjoyed many winters at their condo in Manzanillo, Mexico. In October 1990. Paul received France's highest award, the 'Chevalier de la Legion d' Honneur'. Paul will be missed by his wife, Colette; and his daughter, Michele Stinnett; son-in-law, Ray Stinnett; grandchildren, Chris (Thea) and Rachel Stinnett; and great-granddaughter, Stella. He is also survived by his brother, Jacques, still living in France. Memorial Service, Saturday, July 26, 11:00 am, at Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 1091 S. Colorado Boulevard, Denver, Colorado. Remembrances suggested to The Children's Foundation, PO Box 1031, Niwot, Colorado, 80544-1081, USA.