What began as a single product born from a science project became Paul Stokstad’s lifelong ambition to provide educators and students worldwide with innovative ways to teach and learn science.
Although Paul was not a science teacher, he discovered early in life that he could apply his engineering and business skills to help science teachers. Encouraged by his physics professors, he built the Millikan Oil Drop Apparatus, printed a brochure, and presented it at an AAPT national meeting. To his surprise, teachers were willing to purchase the Millikan Oil Drop from a company with no reputation, based solely on the information in the brochure. He later expressed gratitude to those teachers, saying, “There would never have been a PASCO without the loyal support of teachers.”
Paul took PASCO from his garage to its current location in Roseville, California, transforming it into the worldwide science company it is today. Despite his success, Paul remained humble, always emphasizing that he couldn’t have done it alone. He credited PASCO employees and science teachers for the company's achievements.
To those who met him only once and to those who knew him well, Paul was always polite—a true gentleman. He was more than just the owner of the company; he was deeply involved in designing products. His goal was to create lab apparatus that not only worked well but also served as valuable teaching tools.
Paul considered the support of PASCO employees and their families to be crucial to the company’s success. Many employees chose to spend their entire careers at PASCO, reflecting Paul’s profound impact on their lives. Through PASCO, Paul has had a tremendous effect on science education worldwide.
In the end, Paul’s legacy shows he became a teacher after all. He taught all of us how to carry forward his vision of improving science education beyond his lifetime.
We invite you to share a memory of Paul or a short tribute to honor his legacy. Please send submissions to rememberingpaul@pasco.com.
I had the pleasure of meeting Paul, and he was a visionary and invaluable human being. His legacy will keep us working together as great partners as we have been throughout these years.
Analisa Martínez, Honorio Martínez
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Paul. He was a science educator with vision and a leader by example—a great man indeed!
Stylianos Theodorou, Director of Sprel Ltd.
Still in high school, I was one of his first employees who worked out of his garage in Lafayette, CA. First the Millikan Oil Drop experiment, then the capacitance demonstration, and then steady growth and success. Paul spoiled me because from then on, I expected all bosses to be as incredibly intelligent, polite, respectful, and genuinely interested in me. Although we went different ways and lost contact, his memory and example will always be with me.
David Janke, Salt Lake City
Our relationship with PASCO, and personally with Paul, has always been far beyond a normal business relationship. We learned a lot from him about physics and business, but also about life. We will never forget him.
The entire Elitalia staff
Paul was an absolute gentleman, and I have fond memories of meeting with him on the many occasions he traveled to Ireland to visit with us and attend the Irish Science Teachers Annual Conference.
Stephen Dunne, Lennox
Paul built up PASCO, brought in educators, achieved much success, and made a great contribution in the field of educational science. Paul shared his positive energy with us, and we made many wonderful memories. We will always cherish those moments and are grateful to have had the opportunity to cooperate with him. His efforts, wisdom, kindness, and generosity inspired people, and we believe he will be remembered forever.
Paul, KYS Tech Co Ltd.
He was an extraordinary man with whom I always had the pleasure of talking about life and our vision of science education. I had the pleasure of having dinner with him and his wife in Paris a few years ago—a wonderful moment. Paul was able to create a real family at PASCO.
Sylvain, Mediascience
I only met Paul on a few occasions and always felt welcomed and important to him. He has certainly left a legacy that will be remembered by many.
Scott Montgomery, AYVA Educational Solutions
Our greatest tribute to Paul Stokstad is to continue his legacy of providing superb science equipment to science education and to carry on the company’s vision and mission. Let us celebrate the life and success of Paul. From a gangly teenager who discovered a better way of performing the Millikan Oil Drop Experiment, to starting a business, to growing and setting new standards for the industry. Fast forward to PASCO sitting at the top with state-of-the-art technological products; certainly, it was a wild and successful ride!
Cesar T Bermundo, Sciencestar
Paul was an inspiration to me. I not only learned about business and science from him, but also about this thing called life!
Peter, Pert Industrials
I first saw Paul in a picture with my dad, B.K. Cha, in front of PASCO's office a very long time ago. Many years later, I met Paul in Roseville, and it was such a great moment. He was not only a business partner but also a friend of my family. I and Waikay Science will remember his contribution, and his legacy will live on with all of us.
Michelle Cha, CEO Waikay Science
We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Paul Stokstad, the esteemed leader of Pasco Scientific. Paul Stokstad was an exceptional leader and a remarkable human being. His vision and dedication has left an indelible mark on all of us who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. His innovative spirit and commitment to advancing science education have touched countless lives, including many students and teachers here in Peru. We are grateful for the opportunity to have collaborated with Paul Stokstad and the entire Pasco Scientific team. Under his guidance, we learned from the best in the industry, embracing sophisticated and cutting-edge technologies that have enhanced the way science is taught in Peru. Paul Stokstad played a pivotal role in elevating the standards of science education here in Peru, and for that, we are deeply thankful. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the values and principles he embodied.
Gustavo Balvin Jr., Operon Lab SAC and Bionet SA
Paul was a one-of-a-kind guy with a unique set of standards. I’m very sad to hear this—as will the entire physics community.
Paul ‘Pablo’ Robinson
We received the news of the passing of the founder of our esteemed multinational PASCO with great sadness. His legacy will endure in every technological advancement and every young mind that benefits from his contributions. May his memory and vision continue to guide us toward a future where science education and innovation remain fundamental pillars for human progress.
The Dotaequip Colombia Family
Thank you, Paul, for your unwavering dedication and impact on science education. Your voyage continues to inspire generations of founders and visionaries alike. You will be remembered by everyone at GENETRON and HYPEGEN.
Melissa & Michael, GENETRON ENGINEERING CORPORATION PTE LTD, Peiling & Linda, HYPEGEN LLP
A founder and visionary who paved paths for many science aspirants across the world with wonderful products. We believe that the best way to pay homage to him is by committing to continue as an essential part of the PASCO family, inspiring and educating the next generation of scientists.
Nilesh Korgaonkar, CEO of ATLAB Centena Group
Paul was an inspiration to all of us, and indeed he will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Pablo Pazos, Aldenor SA
I'll always remember the new employee orientation with Paul. He said, "For PASCO, profit is like oxygen. We need it to survive but it is not why we are here. We are here to support science education." Paul was always gracious and ready to share his successes with everyone. His work will continue to influence classrooms for many years.
Mike Blasberg
Paul was instrumental in AYVA’s success; so much is owed to him. I only had the chance to meet Paul once, but I could tell he was a man of vision, curiosity, and immense character. From the equipment he designed and built, to the people he selected to work with and lead the company that bears his name — his intellect and values were evident in so many ways.
Marc Lazenby, AYVA
The GEIA, SRL family deeply regrets such an irreparable loss, as we feel that not only his relatives have lost him, but the world has also lost him since his contributions are present in more than 150 countries. We understand that the contemporary scientific world deeply regrets his departure. We’re determined to continue with PASCO and maintain his legacy.
Andres Portes, GEISA
When Paul visited the Oprah Academy for Girls in South Africa, he gave them a complete set of the Sally Ride Science Curriculum, signed and dedicated to the Oprah Academy by the author herself. What a clever and classy gift from a real gentleman. More valuable than the science I learned from Paul were lessons about running an honorable business dedicated to quality and genuine contribution, and about living a life of humility, service and integrity. May God bless his legacy.
Peter Horszowski, Pert Industrials
What I have always admired about Paul Stokstad is how closely the culture and practice of the company he founded adhered to his expressed commitment to teachers. He recognized the importance of teachers to the future of society, and ensured PASCO’s mission was to support them. Every interaction I had with PASCO in my 27-year teaching career demonstrated this commitment. I was fortunate to get to work at PASCO and interact with Paul on a regular basis after I retired from teaching. I was not surprised to see him repeatedly articulate and demonstrate the priority he placed on teachers. One example was when he came to my cubicle with the recent Physics Today magazine to show me the article about my receiving an AAPT service award. He was as excited about it as I was! His attention inspired and motivated me. Paul was one of the most generous and interesting people I have known. I know he will be deeply missed at PASCO, AAPT, and physics education communities around the globe.
Dan Burns, Retired Physics Teacher
I am so sorry for all who knew and loved him. He was such a strong supporter of physics education. Paul and I had a long professional relationship and I considered him a friend. I have trouble not crying every time I think of him. I will miss him.
Karen Jo Matsler
As teachers, we all hope we are making a positive difference in the lives of our students. When I think about how many students have learned something useful from using a PASCO product, I cannot help but imagine all the positive experiences Paul and PASCO helped create in science classrooms all over the world for all these years. What a wonderful legacy!
Mr. S. Nicholas Nannen, IB & AP Science Teacher
How to describe Paul? We always experienced friendly and collegial contacts and great hospitality from Paul. Inviting us to PASCO parties at NSTA and Worlddidac, even being a competitor. Always curious and happy to exchange information on new developments. It has been a privilege to have known him as a person. His contributions to Science Education are impossible to overestimate. Our sincere condolences to his wife and family and the whole PASCO community.
Ton Ellermeijer and Ewa Kedzierska, CMA, Amsterdam
I made my first contact with PASCO back in 1989 and began business with the company in 1992. We first met Paul personally at a meeting held in Buenos Aires in the 90’s, and I was struck by his manners, clarity, focus, vision, and ethical commitment. More than a boss, he seemed to be the elder brother and inspiration to us all. We became instant friends. We met many other times, and although the company had grown much larger in articles, number of employees, and surely a number of problems to solve, Paul remained a jovial man, giving attention to detail and dispensing a warm treatment to everyone around him. He cared deeply for PASCO, and his achievements were far from trivial.
Sergio San Roman, TecnoEdu
Paul has made a profound contribution to science education. We are honored to be a part of the PASCO family and to continue Paul’s legacy.
Yergali Sholpan, Transforminn
It was with great sadness that we learned of Paul's passing. There are special people in our lives who never leave, even after they’re gone. Paul is undoubtedly one of them. We will hold him close within our hearts and there he will remain.
Dr. Erol Keskin, EDUTEK
We at Electrotest are saddened to hear of Paul. He will be missed by all and it was always a joy to see him at the GSEP conferences. Paul's legacy will live on.
Steve Williams, Electrotest
Paul’s friendship with both my father and me spanned decades—a testament to his unwavering loyalty and kindness. Our bond was strengthened not only through personal connections but also through our shared passion for science and education. I vividly recall his heartfelt visit to Israel, which was a trip that was as meaningful to him as it was to us. Those great long hours we shared over the years will always hold a special place in my heart. Meeting Paul at PASCO in California and at various exhibitions around the world was always a highlight. His extensive knowledge and genuine humanity were unparalleled. Paul wasn’t just a brilliant mind; he was a person of great compassion, integrity, and a great big smile. His contributions to science education have made a significant impact—one that will continue to benefit future generations. He built more than just a company; he built a community and a vision that will endure. His memory will always be a source of inspiration and strength.
Omer, שולמן ציוד לימודי, Shulman Scientific
Paul's vision and dedication to advancing science education have left an indelible mark on the global community. His pioneering work and passion have not only shaped PASCO's success but also inspired countless educators and students worldwide. We are truly honored to be part of the extended PASCO family and share in your commitment to advancing science education.
Gábor Herczog, CEO
The entire PASCO family would not have been born without Paul. He deserves a lot of credit for the company he has put together—not only for the success of his business but especially for the community of people who make it up. I will never forget him and will always remember him fondly.
Pavel Borovička, Profimedia
I had the good fortune to be hired by Paul in 1977 when the company was just a few years old. I left PASCO after having spent 22 memorable years as a partner with Paul. They were wonderful years of creative energy and growth. Paul was a gentleman who truly cared for his employees. The family of PASCO that Paul started back then was a true blessing for the community and science education. I will always treasure the experience of those early years of PASCO. God bless you, Paul.
Bob Porter, Granite Bay, CA
Mr. Stokstad’s legacy and contribution will remain forever.
Nova ND, Brazil
