Paul “Kent” Halbmaier

On December 8th, 2022, Paul “Kent” Halbmaier passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and the company of heaven. He was 78 years old and a beloved husband, dad, papa, brother, uncle, and friend. Born in 1944 in Waterloo, Iowa, he moved westward at age 6 with his parents to Downey, their favorite big, little city! He attended Alameda Elem., South Middle School, and Downey HS (class of ‘62) where he was an accomplished swimmer and waterpolo player.

Kent earned a BA in History from the Univ. of the Philippines, a Masters degree, and teaching and administrative credentials from Cal-State, Los Angeles. He taught at Marian School in Montebello, St. John Bosco in Bellflower, and in 1979 began his 31 year career with Downey USD as a beloved teacher, administrator, and Director of Special Education. He was admired and respected by colleagues, students, and parents alike! Kent was President of CEC (Council for Exceptional Children), an Adjunct Professor for National University, and was honored by ACSA as an Administrator of the Year for the State of California, as well as inducted into the Downey HS Hall of Fame!

Kent proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1966-1970 and was given an Honorable Discharge. Military honors were presented to him at the graveside accompanied by the Patriot Guard Riders.

Kent enjoyed being an active member in the Downey community, serving on the YMCA Board, President of Downey Los Amigos Kiwanis, G.O.O.D, Public Works Committee, Commissioner of Downey Cemetery District, and also served on the Vestry of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.

He loved to garden and was an avid swimmer, surfer, sailor, hiker, and fly fisherman and, most importantly, a kind, compassionate, and wonderful human being!!

Kent will be forever loved and missed by his wife, Barbara, daughter, Michelle, son, Toby, daughter-in-law, Jenny, son, Josh, daughter-in-law, Heidi, and 5 amazing grandchildren, Wyatt, Tayla, Whitney, Skyla and Blaise. He also leaves his sisters, Jan Musso and Carola Otanez and their families.

Private services were held on January 11th. Condolences may be sent to the family through www.rishermortuary.com.

Contributions in Kent’s memory may be made to:

Downey Los Amigos Kiwanis Scholarship Fund

Downey USD TLC Family Resource Center