Dennis Melvin Paustian

Dennis Melvin Paustian (aka "Dr. Paustian")
April 20, 1947 - July 25, 2023

Dr. Dennis Melvin Paustian was born in Iowa to Melvin and Ruth Paustian on April 20, 1947. He was one of three boys, grew up working on his family's farm in Walcott, and was known for his talent in sports. He served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1970, and fought in the Vietnam war where he earned an Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters for flying 117 times.

Dennis attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, and graduated in 1945. He was a proud member of the Rugby Football Club "Old Boys" where they were national champions in 1972 and 1973. He moved to Torrance, California and got married to Jane in 1976. They were married for 19 years and shared 4 children: Timothy, Nicholas, Meghan and Elisa.

Dennis ran his chiropractic business "Paustian Chiropractic" from 1976 up until May of this year. His daughter Elisa worked alongside of him in his office and he frequently had his grandchildren running around, causing ruckus, but keeping the business lively. He was known in the community for his talent with using Toftness Technique, nutrition, and N.E.T. for natural healing. He was beloved by patients, many who stayed with him for over 45 years through his long career. His clients became lifelong friends and he is remembered by them for his honesty, wit and humor.

Dennis was a supporter of the American Legion of Veterans, a supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project and would treat veterans in his chiropractic practice for free. He was active in the Rotary, a member of the Elks, a supporter of the California State Parks Foundation and was politically involved. He supported the "Petal Pushers" Lutheran Hour Ministries and enjoyed working with them on the floats for the Rose Parade.

Dennis loved to play cards, and played poker with friends weekly. He loved sports, and loved to travel and camp. He took trips to places such as Europe, China, Mexico and the Philippines. His children will always remember their adventures with him at Twin Lakes in Mammoth, California as it was his favorite camping destination. He was an entrepreneur and opened a feed store called Steers and Stripes and built houses with his son Nick.

Dennis was a lifelong Christian and had been active with the churches St. Matthew Lutheran, Ascension Lutheran and St. Margaret Mary. He was a current member of Christ Lutheran and enjoyed being an elder of the church. He loved engaging with his church family, and believed in continuing his education with bible study. Dennis was a firm believer and spoke of his faith often. He loved the Lord and knew where he was going at the end of his life.

Dennis was a proud grandfather and loved spending time with his family, especially around a good meal. He will be missed most for his stories, sarcasm, and his ability to deliver a good joke and laugh. He is survived by his 4 children, 8 grandchildren: Briana, Dylan, Julia, Logan, Kylie, Arielle, Ezekiel and Everett "Ace" and 3 great grandchildren: Jaiden, Nevaeh and Aurora.