Paul Kevin Volz

Paul Kevin Volz passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at his home with his husband Dennis holding his hand and singing softly to him. Born in Lynwood, California, to the late Milton Volz and Faun Jackson Volz, Paul graduated from Coquille High School in Coquille, Oregon, and attended St. Mary’s College in Maryland.

In the first half of his life, Paul lived in many parts of the United States, from California to Texas to Maryland. His travels paused in 1996 when he met the love of his life, Dennis Gmerek. The couple made their home in downtown Aiken before moving in 2000 to their country estate, Hurricane Hills, where Paul found deep joy in the peace and tranquility of rural life. There, he and Dennis became devoted “parents” to many beloved fur babies who found their way up the driveway.

After college, Paul built a career in the hospitality industry, working in and managing several hotels in the CSRA, including the Partridge Inn in Augusta, the Wilcox Inn, the Holiday Inn Expresses in Aiken, and finally serving as the last general manager of the Hotel Aiken. His warm, outgoing personality made him especially well suited for this work. In addition, he served as volunteer coordinator for the Cumbee Center to Assist Abused Persons and as shelter manager for the Salvation Army.

Paul and Dennis traveled extensively throughout the United States, the Caribbean, and Europe, sharing a special enthusiasm for geocaching that perfectly matched Paul’s curious and playful spirit. He was the proud owner of the “Cliffs of Cache” Geocache in Hitchcock Woods.

Paul is survived by his husband, Dennis Gmerek; three maternal aunts, Dawnetta Bolaris, Rhea Stevens, and Carolyn Gifford; uncle Stanton Jackson; a host of cousins; his three cherished fur babies, Buster, Houston, and Savannah; and many treasured friends. Those who knew him will remember his quick wit, kind heart, and remarkable ability to make people laugh. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all whose lives were brightened by his presence.