Paul B. Sedler

Paul “Cotton” Sedler, 89 of Kansas City, Kansas passed away, Tuesday, November 8, 2022 comfortably, at the home he built - with family by his side. He was born January 25, 1933 to John and Francis (Agnitsch) Sedler of German descent. Cotton and his 6 siblings were raised in the St. Anthony’s Catholic church in KCK - where he attended elementary school. He graduated from Bishop Ward High School where he excelled at football, basketball, and track. After high school, Cotton served in the US Army and was stationed in Germany. While in the military, he was an avid basketball player and sang in the Men’s Chorus. Cotton was honorably discharged in 1953. In October of that year, he married high school sweetheart - Dolores “Dee Dee” Hinkle. Cotton and Dee Dee were married for 69 years. Their relationship was special. Over the next few years, he attended KCKCC and played basketball for the college.Cotton then went on to serve as a Carpenter’s Apprentice and transitioned into a highly skilled and respected tradesman. Shortly thereafter, his career began which consisted of constructing mostly commercial buildings with companies and colleagues (especially Fogel-Anderson) whom he respected and thoroughly enjoyed working with. Cotton was a proud member of the Carpenter’s Union throughout his career. To say Cotton loved his job, would be an understatement. His love of creating things, architecture, and perfectionistic traits were present in all aspects of his life. Cotton retired at 76 years old, completely enjoying his successful 56 year career. Cotton and “his bride” Dee Dee welcomed 5 children. Deborah Sedler Hawkins - married to Greg Hawkins, Paula Sedler Diaz - married to Jaime Diaz, Laura Sedler Zych - married to Rick Zych, Paul Sedler Jr., Dr. Stacy Sedler.  The immediate family also consists of 10 grandkids, and 7 great grand kids. He loved all of “those little T’s”.

Cotton had a unique set of character traits and attributes. He had strong principles, was a “hand shake kind of man”, and had a strong resolve for his point of view - on virtually any topic (especially his medications). He was always quick to laughter, told THE best stories, and found joy in those he loved. He was was a superb artist, he enjoyed singing and “good” music (loved the Rat Pack and Tom Jones). Anyone who knew Cotton, understands how much he enjoyed his non-work time. Throughout his years, he had a passion for many things: nature, fishing (especially BIG catfish), saying “Hey!”, drawing, a good thunderstorm, a beautiful song, basketball, football, ping pong, horse shoes, and…of course debating. Cotton always loved being surrounded by his family and friends. He was so happy cooking/feeding everyone and holding court with his hilarious stories. To say Lake Quivira was his “happy place” would be an understatement. He loved having everyone at the lake to fish, have great food, and just enjoy life. The downsides, of the lake were: stink bait in the fridge, a “ratted up” fishing pole, 6 year old hot dogs, a “splat” on the dock from Skinny Legs, and anyone who didn’t put back his stuff “right”. 

Over the years, Cotton was incredibly involved in Dee Dee’s childhood church: Holy Family. The church, the Alter Society, and his “boys” at the Club became his second family-especially after he retired. He was very generous with his time and expertise with many projects over the years. Cotton loved everyone at Holy Family, and we believe everyone loved him too. Additionally, Cotton treasured his life-long friendships with his grade school and high school friends and their families.

Our family wanted to extend a special thanks to Carter Home Health and Apple Orchard Hospice for their loving care in Cotton’s final days.

Last, but certainly not least, the entire family would like to thank Dr. Michael Parra “my boy Mikey” for his years of genuine care and friendship for our Cotton. No words can express our gratitude.

Family suggest donations be made to Holy Family Church, KCK. Services will be Saturday, November 19 at Holy Family Church, KCK. Rosary at 08:30, Visitation 9-11:00, Mass 11-12:00. Gravesite services will be private. A luncheon will follow Mass at Holy Family Club to celebrate Cotton’s life.