Petaluma, California - Paul Deprey died on October 10, 2025, in Petaluma, CA. Paul was born June 24, 1967, in Edmondston, New Brunswick, to Gerrie Boufford, of Portsmouth, NH, and Reno Deprey, of Anchorage, AK.

After graduating from Madawaska High School in 1986, Paul followed in the steps of his oldest sister, Patrice, to University of Maine at Orono and double majored in history and anthropology. After college, he spent a couple of years in Durham, NH, working in residence life at UNH, then he moved to Bellingham, WA, and achieved his masters in anthropology at Western Washington University. He also met Cari Kreshak, originally from Packwood, WA, whom he would marry in 1995.

Paul devoted more than three decades to public service, demonstrating an enduring commitment to conservation, heritage, and the people who carry out the NPS mission. Colleagues across the Service remember his humility, thoughtful leadership, and deep respect for both employees and the resources under his care. His family remember his thoughtfulness, creative spirit, humor, and his ability to be a caretaker, even when he was enduring illness.

Before joining the NPS, Paul worked as an archaeologist for the USDA Forest Service and held positions with the USDA Office of the Secretary and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, contributing to major initiatives including the Northwest Forest Plan, the Headwaters Land Exchange, and efforts to strengthen federal-tribal relationships.

Paul began his NPS career in 2001, serving as resource manager at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area and Joshua Tree National Park. In 2008, he became superintendent of Pearl Harbor National Memorial, where he oversaw the construction of a new visitor campus, guided the renovation of the USS Arizona Memorial, and partnered with the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi to help establish Honouliuli National Historic Site, ensuring that the stories of Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II would be remembered and shared.

He later served as superintendent of Salem Maritime and Saugus Iron Works National Historic Sites, and as NPS liaison to the Essex National Heritage Area, where he was known for fostering strong partnerships and expanding interpretation of America's maritime heritage.

In 2022, Paul was appointed superintendent of San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, where he brought wisdom, warmth, and stability to a complex urban park rich in history and community. He was deeply proud of the staff and volunteers who preserve the park's historic ships, museum collections, and stories of maritime life. His colleagues remember him as a steady leader who listened with care, valued every perspective, and consistently placed people at the heart of stewardship.

Paul is survived by his wife, Cari Kreshak, of Petaluma, CA, also an NPS employee, and their two sons, Sebastian and Ronan. Those wishing to honor his memory may make a donation to the Redwood Empire Food Bank (refb.org) or a local Food Bank, reflecting his lifelong compassion and commitment to community. In addition to his parents, Cari and his sons, he is survived by his sisters, Patrice Deprey, Frostburg, MD, Ellen Deprey (Pete Gilbertson), North Creek, NY, Kathleen "Kate" Philbrick (John), Gardiner, ME, and Mona Deprey (Conor MacEvilly), Seattle, WA; and Jim Deprey (Annamarie), Waldo, OH. He is also survived by many his Uncle Elmer and Aunt Irene of Creston, B.C.; as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Paul fought colon cancer for 7 years and was incredibly positive throughout his treatment. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his memory will continue to inspire and comfort those who loved him. Family, friends, and colleagues alike will carry forward his legacy in their hearts, cherishing the memories.