Paul Kuck Biography
Paul Martin Kuck was born into the fabric of a German farming community, New Knoxville, OH, on February 15, 1930. It was on the family farm that his hardy work ethic was cultivated (through milking cows each morning and evening) and later passed on to his own family and business culture. In the midst of this tight-knit community he met his sweetheart Carol with whom he shared almost 54 years of marriage (Carol went to heaven in July 2005). A man always brimming with marketing ideas, he set out with his first venture in a potato business. It was interrupted by being drafted to serve in the occupation of post World War II Germany. His destiny was already unfolding as he and Carol embarked on the adventure of exploring Europe and becoming familiar with European culture; this would later serve them in successfully marketing Regal Boats around the globe.
Upon returning to the U.S., their lives took some unusual twists and Paul began selling steel buildings for Pruden Products, manufactured in Evansville, WI. It was through Pruden that Paul met life long friends and partners, Clark Prudhon (founder of Pruden) and Dr. E.C. (Gene) Kandel. Although Paul had enjoyed a successful career with Pruden, his destiny took another turn which led him, Carol, and their three children to Orlando, Florida. With a precious nest egg of $60,000 and $20,000 each from Clark and Gene, this energetic entrepreneur founded Regal Marine in 1969. Despite persevering hard work and relentless effort, Regal struggled for survival in 1973-1974 as our nation faced the energy crisis and gas and petroleum prices soared. It was at this time that Paul came to the end of himself, renewed his commitment to Jesus Christ, and surrendered Regal to God’s omnipotent care.
Regal not only survived the energy crisis but by flourished by leaps and bounds in the years and decades to follow. Regal is now one of the world’s largest privately held boat manufacturers posting $160 million in sales annually, with dealers and distributors in 40 countries. With worldwide headquarters based in Orlando, FL, including a current expansion underway, and a second manufacturing plant in Valdosta, GA, Regal operates from 650,000 square feet and has 850 team members. Regal is recognized as one of the global leaders in luxury performance boats, producing over 50,000 boats since 1969 ranging in length from 18’ to 44’ in sport boats, sport cruisers and yachts.
In addition to founding a thriving business, Paul was a leader in the marine industry through his role as Chairman of the National Marine Manufacturers Association in 1988 - 1990. He was the recipient of many business and community awards, including the 2003 Junior Achievement Hall of Fame Laureate, and the Orlando Small Business Person of the Year in 1983. He was passionate in many arenas of Christian Ministry such as Prison Fellowship International, Bill Glass Prison Outreach, the Orange Country Jail ministry, Frontline Outreach, and CareNet. He also served faithfully at his home church First Presbyterian Church of Orlando, where he and Carol attended for more than 35 years. Of course the ministry nearest to his heart was Nathaniel’s Hope, dedicated to helping special needs children and their families, inspired by his grandson Nathaniel.
Although Paul earned many awards and accolades in his 76 years, it was his passion for wife and family that shines most brightly. His life served as a beacon to light the way for so many, but especially for his three children, Duane, Tim and Pam. Together they shouldered the challenges of work and joys of family, and the children benefited from being mentored by a loving and dedicated man who exemplified a life dedicated to serving God and practically applying the path of integrity in business and at home.
As a grandfather, Paul demonstrated loving dedication in many ways, including daily driving the grandkids to school for 10 years. He will be greatly missed by spouses, Cindy, Marie and Bart, and grandchildren, Josiah, Paul, Brianna, Jake, Ashley, Noah, Lexi, Cristina, Cassi, Kalli and Julia. (Grandson Nathaniel is already enjoying some one-on-one with Grandpa in heaven).
With family tightly gathered around his ICU bedside on September 5, 2006, Paul Kuck joined wife Carol in their home with Jesus. His legacy continues because of the solid foundation of faith he has built in his family, his business, his community, his industry and among the many friends and associates throughout the world whose lives he has touched, from boat dealers to those suffering in third world prisons. He lovingly made an eternal investment in the lives of family, friends and business associates – an investment that is already reaping great returns in the lives of many. As this investment is recognized by his beloved friends and family, the mandate is clear for all to honor the gift that has been received from Paul Kuck, and carry on with passion a life of giving to family, community and those in need around the world.