Paul Porowski

May 23rd, 1954 - August 9th, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of long time Polk County resident Paul Edward Porowski, 70, who left us on August 9, 2024.

Paul was born and raised in South Bend, IN. He graduated from Clay HS. A proud graduate of Florida Southern College(76), Paul earned his bachelor's degree in education.

Paul played baseball in Florida, pitching for both Miami- Dade North Community College and FSC. While at FSC, Paul was honored to be selected by Coach Smeltzly to pitch for the FSC winning team in the 1975 NCAA Division II baseball championship. Paul was a member of the Theta Chi fraternity, where he served as a pledge trainer and inter fraternity campus leader.

After college, “Coach” dedicated his career to shaping young minds as a beloved teacher in Polk County. His passion for education extended beyond the classroom as he served as a baseball coach at Auburndale High School, where he inspired countless students and athletes.

In addition to his commitment to education and coaching, Paul had a deep love for fishing, which brought him peace and happiness. His enthusiasm for life, along with his warmth and kindness, will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He took great joy in being a grandfather to his cherished grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and John Porowski. He is survived by his loving wife, Connie; daughter, Kari (Joe) Hopkins; grandchildren, Piper and Hunter Hopkins; siblings, Joe Porowski, Ann (Dennis) Handschu, Tim (Lisa) Porowski.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at Cleveland Heights Golf Course 2900 Buckingham Ave, Lakeland, FL 33803 Friday August 23, 2024 @ 11:30am where friends and family can come together to honor his memory.

We Entrusted Paul Porowski's Care To

Oak Ridge Funeral Care - Winter Haven

Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Idylwild, generations of families have trusted Oak Ridge Funeral Care to create a unique goodbye. Our facilities, including a serene chapel and versatile reception room, are ideally suited for traditional memorials, life celebrations, and more intimate gatherings, depending on your family's preference.

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(863) 216-2557

When words can't fully express what we want to say, sometimes a small gift can. Visit our Memorial Store for personalized gifts, keepsake jewelry and to plant a memorial tree.

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Paul’s life with a heartfelt message.

John Cooney

I met Paul back in the 70's. Wonderful person! So sorry to hear this. RIP my friend.

Published August 24th, 2024

Eddie Cardieri

Paul was the epitome of a competitor who rubbed off on his teammates… it was an inspiration to play with/behind him… he was loved by all his teammates, fraternity brothers and anyone who knew him!

Published August 21st, 2024

Kevin Knuth

When was a time Paul made you laugh?

He was always making me laugh especially when it came to his classroom management style in life management class

Published August 22nd, 2024

Mike Spatola

Coach Bobby Bowden once said, "Don't go to the grave with life unused." I can't imagine a college classmate, fraternity pledge trainer, FSC alumnus, ND fan & great friend who "used" life more fully than Paul Porowski. Strong? Resilient? You bet! For 20 years Paul waged a heroic battle against the pain he suffered from an automobile accident. He is now in Heaven, pain free & no doubt up to his usual shenanigans! While at Southern, he was one of our most supportive basketball fans. Paul was one of the stellar pitchers on the 1975 FSC National Championship team. His grit, competitiveness & savvy on the mound are legendary. Paul touched so many lives as a teacher & coach at Auburndale High School. A wonderful spouse, loving father, caring granddad & friend to all, Paul will be sorely missed. This I know: Who leaves a footprint is always with us, you don't see it but you feel it. RIP, Dear Friend.

Published August 13th, 2024

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