Arius Paul Trottier, 80, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2026 at his residence in Springfield, MO., surrounded by loved ones. He was born on October 9, 1945 in Lebanon, New Hampshire, and lived a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Paul was a beloved husband to his lifetime love Sandra, loving father of 3, grand-father of 8, and great-grandfather of 11. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Paul is survived by daughter Kimberly Johnson and husband Greg, son Denton Trottier and fiancée Laura Kiesel, daughter Daneya Reid and husband Michael, brother Jonathon Trottier and wife Michaelle, brother David Trottier and wife Lesley, Sister Judy Patterson, and sister-in-law Eileen Austin. Paul is also survived by his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. And last but not least, his faithful dog and best friend, Sammi.

Paul was preceded in death by his wife Sandra Trottier, parents Carolus and Irene Trottier, and sister Elizabeth Suratt.

Paul will be remembered for his endearment of his late wife Sandra, his witty sense of humor, his love for boxing, and his elaborate story-telling! A couple of examples would include: when Paul wanted to have a Big-Mac, he would tell Sandra he needed to go to Home-Depot. When he arrived home the only purchases that were evident in the truck were McDonald’s wrappers! Or when he would tell his kids he was going fishing, he would tell us elaborate stories about that days fishing expedition, even though he knew that ‘share my location’ was active on his phone, and we could see him driving west on I-44 headed to a casino! At times, dad would outright say I like to make up stories!

Of course, nothing was more prominent having life-long impact to Paul than being a member of the United States Army. Paul participated in multiple Vietnam tours, and many major campaigns during his service time. And although that time served resulted in most of the ailments Paul faced during his lifetime, he was one of the most-proud servicemen you could meet, and supported that pride in everything he did and said; and as is shown in the multiple commendations / medals he received (and even some he did not; placing precedence of rescuing his fellow soldiers over going to the medic and reporting his heroism). This pride is also prominently displayed on his Service Dedication Wall, filled with various pictures, medals, articles, etc. He truly was proud to be an American serviceman and Hero!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gary Sinise foundation in Arius’ name to benefit wounded veterans and their families.