Craig Thomas Pautler (1/26/1948-1/27/2026)

Craig was born in Lancaster NY and graduated from Depew High School in 1966.  He then headed to warmer climate, graduating from Florida Atlantic University and in 1973 began a lifelong tennis career, first with Rockresorts in Puerto Rico, the British Virgin Islands Caneel Bay and Little Dix Bay, until he was tapped for the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii in 1977.  He continued his tennis career at such renowned resorts as Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, the Ihilani, Hyatt Regency Waikoloa, Kiahuna Tennis Club and the Phoenician Resort, before returning to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel 2004-2026.  He additionally coached High School tennis at Hawaii Preparatory Academy.  Craig's lifelong passion for tennis extended to players of all ages as he encouraged, taught and instilled in others the same passion for the sport.  He actively supported youth sports programs on the Big Island including HiPal and AYSO.  He is survived by his cherished daughters Michelle Pautler Howard (Brandon) and Megan Pautler Gutnikov (Felix), 5 beloved grandchildren Axton, Alectra, Henry, Isabella and Sage – as well as his brother Ward Pauter (Linda) and treasured nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his mother Evelyn Rainey Pautler.  In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to AYSO 403 North Hawaii.  Donations may be made through this link: AYSO North Hawaii  or by scanning the below QR code.  A memorial service for Craig will be held at 10:30am Saturday, February14 at Wendel & Locher Funeral Home 27 Aurora Street, Lancaster NY 14086.  A luncheon to follow.

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