Paul Allen Praast Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Paul Allen Praast (Billings, Montana), born in Great Falls, Montana, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 58, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to family and friends.

Paul grew up in Anaconda, Montana, where he graduated from Anaconda Senior High School in 1984. Following graduation, he moved to Bozeman, Montana, to attend Montana Tech, where he earned a degree in welding and small engine repair.

In 1996, Paul moved to Billings, Montana, where he co-founded a small engine repair shop with his best friend and brother, Jim Wine. Together, they built a thriving business that reflected Paul’s passion for hard work. Paul then started his career at True North Steele in 2000. He enjoyed going to work everyday and made amazing friends. He was a couple years from retirement.

Paul married the love of his life, Elena, on December 29, 1998. Over their 26 years of marriage, Paul embraced the role of a devoted husband and father. He lovingly took on the responsibility of raising Elena’s three children—Jesse, Alycia, and Amber—as his own. In March 2007, Paul’s heart grew even fuller when he and Elena welcomed Ashlie into our family. Paul’s love for Ashlie was immediate, and in April 2010, her adoption was finalized, making their family complete.

Paul’s life was enriched by his large and loving family. He is survived by his wife Elena; sons Jesse and Jake; daughters Alycia, Amber, and Ashlie; and eight cherished grandchildren: Bryce, Kirah, MacKenzie, Isaiah, Noah, Caleb, Ryder, and Ella. Paul also leaves behind his father, Paul Praast; his mother, Virginia Dougan; his sisters, Patricia Praast, Catherine Elfstrom, Diane Gates, and Ginny Lanes; and his brothers, Jim Wine, Greg Lanes, and Ken Gates. He is fondly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and countless friends.

Paul will be reunited in heaven with his beloved Grandma Fox, Mother in-law Maria Wine, Father in-law Jim Wine, Granddaughter Angel, and great-niece J’da. Together, they will dance in the clouds, surrounded by eternal love and joy.

Paul was a man of reason, understanding, and unwavering love. His humor and kind spirit touched the lives of everyone he met, often without him even realizing the profound impact he had. He brought laughter and light into every room and left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Paul’s memory will be cherished by his family and friends, who will honor his legacy by continuing to spread the love and laughter he so generously shared. May he rest in peace, forever remembered and deeply missed.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 18th 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Emmanuel Baptist Church (328 South Shiloh Road, Billings, Montana 59106).