John Paul JP Gottschalk

John “Paul” or “JP” Gottschalk, born on April 7, 1949, in Billings, Montana, passed away at the age of 74 on March 31, 2024, in Bellingham, Washington.  A dedicated servant of the community, Paul proudly served as a Bellingham Police Officer, Crime Scene Investigator for 20 years, leaving an indelible mark on those he served.  Paul’s upbringing instilled in him a love of Jesus and a heart to serve people. As a child, he lived many years Sri Lanka, where his parents were missionaries. Paul was an amazing pianist, loving Southern Gospel, the Oldies, and show tunes but could play just about anything by ear. He graduated from West High School in Bremerton and attended Northwest College. Before joining the police family, he worked at the Bremerton shipyards and Intalco Refinery. His love for his family was only outshined by his love for God. Paul will be remembered as not only a dedicated public servant but also as a beloved father, grandfather, brother, son and friend. His legacy of service and love will continue to inspire those who knew him. He was preceded in death by his father, John F. Gottschalk, stepmother, Melva Gottschalk, and his mother, Bonnie Sala.  Paul is survived by his daughters Krista Gottschalk of Lynden and Kelli Kettels (Trent Kettels) of South Carolina. He adored his 10 grandchildren: Ben, Nathaniel, and Michael Cooley; Owen, Eric, Joel, Ava, and Sydney Bode; and Jacob and Nate Kettels. He is also survived by his sister Mel-Beth (Ken) Haug, brothers Tim, David, and Dan (Debbie) Gottschalk. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, April 9, at Bayview Cemetery at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at Good News Fellowship, 1252 West Axton Road, Ferndale, WA 98248, at 11:30am.  Memorials in Paul’s name can be made to the Bellingham Police Association, 505 Grand Ave. Bellingham, WA 98225.