Michael J. Paupst was born on January 3, 1966. He attended Royal Roads Military College and graduated in Physics and Computer Science in British Columbia. He participated in various sports such as wrestling and volleyball, and won third place in track and field as a javelin thrower. After graduating, he trained as a pilot officer in Moosejaw, Saskatchewan. He then completed his flight instructor course and obtained the title of “Snapper” for new candidates, then aircraft commander for the Auroras patrolling the east and west coasts. Michael worked in a variety of trades, including ski patrol and auxiliary firefighting, always striving to do his best at what he loved to do. He often went above and beyond the call of duty to help others, earning recognition, honor and respect. Father and husband, Major Paupst was a good man who has been sorely missed since June 1, 2007 (at the age of 42). His son became the Commanding Officer of one of Canada’s largest cadet corps, while his daughter is now an infantry-trained soldier, all of whom carry on his legacy.