Paul John Svejda, 73, of Orlando, FL, passed away unexpectedly on July 22, 2026, at AdventHealth Hospital in Winter Park, Florida.

Paul was born at St. Catherine’s Hospital in Omaha, NE on December 22, 1952, to MaryAnn Elizabeth (Hunter) and Frank F. Svejda, and grew up on a farm outside of Modale, IA. He attended West Harrison High School in Mondamin, IA, graduating in 1971, and from there attended Iowa State University graduating with a BS in Horticulture.

Paul worked in a variety of positions throughout his life including wholesale nurseries, real estate, property management and multiple personal business endeavors.

Paul had a great love for travel and was fortunate to see much of the world. He enjoyed the experiences, places, people and the friendships he made along the way. Yet, above all his many interests and adventures, Paul's greatest passion and love was for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Paul attended The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Orlando, where his faith became an important and deeply cherished part of his life. Shortly before his passing, Paul was especially happy and excited to perform a baptism, an experience that held great meaning for him.

Paul deeply loved and treasured his family. No matter how far away a family gathering might be, Paul always attended. Distance was never a reason for Paul to miss an opportunity to be with those he loved.

Paul was also a very talented chef and baker and took great pleasure in preparing special treats for both family and friends. During the holidays, he would make huge pans of poppyseed stollen and other baked goodies to share. His baking was one of the many ways he showed his love and generosity, and his family will fondly remember the abundance of treats he lovingly prepared for them.

Another of Paul's great joys was growing plants. He was always starting something new from seed, patiently watching and nurturing each plant as it grew. Paul had plants growing under lights inside his home, and his love of plants extended outdoors as well. At times his yard might best be described as a jungle—a reflection of his enthusiasm for growing things and bringing life into his surroundings.

Paul is survived by his siblings: Fred D. (Tatyana) Svejda of Brandon, Florida; Terry M. Svejda of Elkhorn, Nebraska; Mark D. (Eva) Svejda of Scottsdale, Arizona; Frank Svejda of Boise, Idaho; and Sharon (Jay) Stout of Fort Collins, Colorado, as well as many nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, MaryAnn and Frank Svejda.

Paul will be remembered for his deep faith, his love of family, his adventurous spirit, his generosity, his baking, his joy in growing plants, his quick smile and gregarious laugh, and a very hearty handshake. Above all, he will be remembered as someone who wanted to share life's experiences with the people he loved. His memory will remain a treasured part of the lives of his family and loved ones, and he will be deeply missed.

A private family burial is planned for September 11, 2026, at the Calhoun Cemetery in Missouri Valley, Iowa.

Memorial donations in Paul’s memory may be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project Foundation, St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Make a Wish Foundation.