Paul Scott Esposito, MD
March 24, 1966 - March 22, 2017

"I will never forget you Dr. Esposito you will be missed! Love your hardest patient ever! Because of your honesty and realness I know one day I will have a successful weight loss surgery! Rest In Peace "

"This Friday and Saturday came and went, as time continues to move forward without pausing for anything or anyone. However, this particular Friday and Saturday forced me (as well as hundreds of others) to tune-out the "white noise" and other distractions of this temporal life on earth - so, we could focus on the bigger picture and reminisce about the individual and collective experiences that will continue to live on even though Paul has moved onward. It is interesting how we use words like "invest", "save", "spend", and "waste" to describe time. That is simply because we instinctively know that time is our most valuable asset on earth - so, we speak of it in terms that can easily be equated to how we describe money. Of course, most of us get so caught-up in the "treadmill of life" that we never force ourselves to truly consider and contemplate if we are optimizing the use of our very limited time on earth. It is so easy to get distracted with those seemingly important (and always time-sensitive) things that must get done now/today/this week. However, attending the prayer service on Friday and funeral on Saturday for Paul forced me (and I am certain most everyone else in attendance) to focus on that question and seek to honestly answer it. How am I leveraging the most valuable asset that I have on this earth...am I truly spending/investing my time wisely? Paul was my friend. We grew-up together. We knew each other quite well. We spent a lot of time together. Like so many folks that spoke about Paul over the course of this weekend, I was also privileged to be a part of Paul's life. We laughed a lot together, and we did a good amount of "mental sparring" (challenging discussions and debates over consequential topics). He was a uniquely gifted person, and I appreciated that in him. He was "super quick" almost "sneaky quick" in processing things, which made it extra fun to engage in anything with him. It has been said, the measure of a person's life is not calculated in the amount of things amassed...awards or credentials attained...monetary wealth created, etc. Rather, a person's life is measured by what he/she gave away! So, it is with complete delight that I remember (and heard others do the same) what Paul gave away, while he lived not quite 51 years on this planet. He gave so much to so many, but I think the things that hit me most clearly include: love, compassion, kindness, joy, laughter, and friendship! He gave away things that have eternal value and lasting impact on the lives of so many. I, like so many of his friends, will deeply miss Paul; however, I thank God for the privilege that I had to know him as my friend. As a Christian, Paul has moved onward to Heaven to enjoy the peace and bliss that we cannot even grasp, which flows from being united with God. My prayer is that his family members will receive peace from God and know that God's timing is always perfect, as He alone is sovereign over all of His creations! "

"My thoughts and prayers are with you. May you and your family be comforted in this season of grief. Cathy (Manaka's mom)."

"It has taken me too long to write this because it is impossible to imagine. Words come easily to me, too easily, most of the time. Yet, in this instance, I am at a loss. There are no adequate words sorrow filled enough. Even as I write this, though, it is only the sadness for us who love him and his family that I feel because when I think of Paul as Paul I can only remember him happy. Smiling. Engaged. Always. I am sure there were days that I knew Paul stressed or frustrated but none have ever come to mind not now or before. The Paul that I remember is always lighting up the room with his smile, making everyone feel somehow lighter because he's there. If there is a burden he'll carry it, but willingly and because he can fix it and because he wants to. I have never not smiled when I was next to Paul. Paul could bring out the best in anyone and any situation. There will be several people now who will say Paul was my best friend, and to each one he was. He was that guy. Everyone's best friend. Because that is who Paul was, the best quality friend that can be imagined. A friend whose love was strong enough to cement everyone together. Like the memories of him are doing again now. Paul will be missed beyond measure, and is loved even more than that."

"May you rest in peace, dear friend! The world and those around Paul were blessed to have him for this short time. I will miss the way he lifts up a room. And of course his sense of humor. He helped make my years at UM the most memorable and it was a pleasure to keep that friendship over the years past school. There was no getting enough of his bright personality, cunning poker games and see how that huge heart carried over to his family. I think anyone who has known Paul takes a little piece of him because he was so contagious, daring and such a good hearted spirit. If Paul was in a room, there would for sure be no one feeling left out, sad or angry. He would pick up on it and turn that attitude right around. The first time I knew this guy was special and we would be long time friends was during Intramural softball at UM, during a co ed game. They needed one more girl and somehow it was me.....definitely the last resort since I don't play softball. So I am on the field, terrified, with all the super softball players, guys and other Sammie little sisters. (And they were a bad ass team. ) Paul went out of his way to build my confidence, coach me and get me playing. I didn't play any better but I felt great, like I contributed and actually belonged to the team. That was Paul. My deepest condolences and prayers go out to all of Paul's family, especially his son Timmie. May you find peace in this time of deepest sorrow and know there is much love and support to help get through this. Love and Blessings. Mary (Castano) Recker "

"Dr. Esposito was an amazing physician and teacher. He was one of the very few doctors that enjoyed teaching. He will not be forgotten. May the lord repose him and give comfort to the family. "

"Espo "Hey Bud." "Heeeeeeeeeeyyy" He knew it was me. Everyone knows it was him. He's my Bud. My Bud left last week. He left us all wanting more. More time with him. More laughs with him. Just to hear him laugh. "He kept writing checks his body couldn't cash." If you didn't know Paul well, I'm sorry. You'll never know how much you missed. Fun. Laughs. Risks. Friendship. Sheer stupidity (in hindsight, but back then it was the best of times). Always together. He was like having your favorite uncle and a great friend at the same time. Everybody knows your favorite uncle let you do stuff you weren't supposed do and gave you ideas you weren't supposed to have. Espo was always a little smarter than and a step ahead of the rest of us. If it was important to him, he figured it out, and then he found the angles. He taught us all how to "Walk in like you own the place." I hope and pray Paul is enjoying peace that surpasses all understanding. He is a new creature playing shortstop, with Steve Jobs in right field. He is in an incredible place in the presence of our SAVIOR, JESUS. He is in great shape with no more tears and no more illness. I'm left behind with you...missing my Bud deeply. I love you Bud. "

"As Paul's Resident Assistant at University of Miami his freshman year (yes, way back when!), I have lots of fond memories. He was definitely a ringleader--mostly in a good way! :-) One thing I'll never forget--I used to love it when our freshman floor team would come out to play the school's fraternities--who looked at them and immediately thought they would beat them in any sport...Surprise! Not with Paul and friends and their athletic abilities. I'm shocked to hear he is gone; he will be missed! With love and prayers for the entire family, Lisa Grigas Roghaar"

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Esposito family. We hope you can hold on to the fond memories you have of Paul prior to his becoming ill. We will be thinking of you, and praying for your families in the weeks and months ahead. Sincere condolences, The Snodgrass Family"

"Great memories of a great friend! It's easy to see from reading the stories and just in knowing Paul, that he made us all feel special. He coaxed us to spread our wings and experience life. College life outside the classroom was centered in our dorm floor camaraderie, our newly formed fraternity and our intramural sports teams (and our parties.) We did nearly everything together for 4 years. Paul being in the mix made everything that much better. I am glad that I got to see and spend a little time with Karin and Tim and the Esposito family this past weekend while vacationing in South Florida. The photos are awesome - it's fun to remember, but sad as well. My thoughts go to Paul's family and his extended family of friends. Steve Kitay "

"I only knew Paul professionally. He was a good guy and an excellent surgeon. We will miss him. My deepest sympathies to his family. Fred Herman MD "

"He was my favorite uncle, and I really am going to miss him. -Nick "

"My heartfelt condolences to the entire family of Paul Esposito. It is my hope that memories of his many accomplishments and moments shared with you, will help to bring you comfort in this most difficult time. May he forever be in your hearts. With my deepest sympathy, Lori Drouin"

"My husband's college friends were a great group - smart, fun, welcoming. Paul stood out as a leader among them. He was charismatic and warm, almost always smiling, sometimes with a little laugh that was really like a giggle. It was infectious. He saw the humor in everything and you couldn't help but have a good time when you were with him. My heart goes out to Karin and Tim, and to all of Paul's family. Please know that he was loved and will always be remembered. "

"We are going to miss you Paul Esposito! So sorry for the family!"

"He was a brilliant man with an unparalleled sense of humor.� An instigator, the greatest example of a friend, a leader. He brought more fun into my life than anyone.� Thank you for the ride, Paul. I'll see you again. What a long strange trip it's been #WALSTIB."

"Our heartfelt condolences to the entire Esposito and extended family for your loss. We will never forget Paul's charm, wit and sense of humor. He will truly be missed. Wishing you comfort and peace during this difficult time. With all our love, The Carcione family. "

"I remember when I first met Paul. I was a freshman at UM, feeling kind of lonely and bummed about my roommate situation. Paul asked me if I played softball and I said I did. He then invited me to come out and practice. Paul was a great player and a better teammate. He had us organized and rolling for the first of many tournament championships and we were all brand new there. Espo was there to encourage you to do better and had a mild kick in the pants or slap on the backside. Whichever he chose, it always seemed right. He was the captain of the ship and made sure we all manned our stations. When football season came around he was our leader there also. Whether it was a long TD pass or an Oskie he seemed to always have a hand in the winning play. I played on a lot of teams in my life and I never had more fun as I did playing with Paul and never was I as good of a teammate. He modeled that for me and I'm really going to miss him."

"Paul Esposito - a great man, leader and friend. Why? We cannot answer but the who we know quite well and will miss his presence always. Life has changed not ended - these are the words of comfort to take now. "

"Winter Park High alumni and the class of 1984 would like to express their condolences to the family. "

"Paul was a big part of my life in high school and college. I had no idea where to go to college until he told me Miami was giving away free tuition. That sounded good to me, but most go all I wanted to go there to be with my friend. When I got there I found Paul was the ring leader of a bunch of nerds in the honors dorm. Everybody looked up to him because of his kindness, charisma, humor, and loyalty. Not necessarily the group that your would pick for your softball team, but they were the best. I will always cherish the memories of high school and summer league baseball with Paul and Rich, as well as the intramural sports in college, sleepovers in the Esposito home, the smell of carpet fresh when Pete and Loretta came home from vacation. Paul was the most unlikely looking athlete, but we all know how good he was. I can still here that infectious laugh. I don't ever remember seeing him down. He always brightened my day. He made everyone around him a better person. Rest in peace Paul I miss you. Chris Crane"

"Paul was the most likeable and loveable guy around. I first met Paul my freshman year of college. He was a sophomore. He and my best friend Amy dated for a while and even after they broke up we all remained great friends. Everyone looked up to Paul and wanted to hang out with. He was charming, always laughing and just so much fun to be around. He brought happiness to everyone. Paul was a Sammie and I was a ZBT little sister but that didn't stop us from forming a co-ed softball team together. He rounded up his athletic Sammie friends and I recruited the girls. I am pretty sure we won all our games! We were quite the team! Even when he started med school and got engaged to Karin, we remained friends. We (Scott and I) attended their wedding and we invited them to ours, and then we lost touch. I tried to find him on Facebook but nothing. It wasn't until 8 years ago when I bumped into Monica at our kids' elementary school in Palm Beach Gardens that we reconnected because Monica had his phone number! I was so excited to talk to Paul again. It was as if no time had gone by. His voice was the same and he still had a cute laugh and enthusiasm. Over the past 8 years, I texted him photos of my UM BFF's every time one of us had an occasion (usually a Bar or Bat Mitzvah). We talked about getting our families together along with Monica's, but it never happened. Then in January, Monica saw my son at a Debate Tournament and gave him a note for me about Paul being in ICU. I was so sad but also so hopeful that he would get better. I even drove to Jackson with Monica to see him (equipped with all my college photo albums) and was turned away after waiting for two hours. It was very disappointing not to see my friend. I will miss him so much. May his memory be a blessing to his family and to everyone who knew him."

"Paul was a sweet, kind, funny man and a loyal friend. He always encouraged me to do things out of my comfort zone and was there to support me when I needed him. He had a tremendous impact on my life and am thankful for the opportunity to have known him. Amy Brown Balis"

"My heartfelt sympathy for Dr. Esposito's family...I worked with him for many years at HCA hospitals.. Needless to say, we always had a laugh.... My nick name for him was "Rush" ...as he would fly into the O.R. for a case....and Rush out again for yet another emergency. He adored his son and wife and I admired his work ethic and well honed sense of humor. He will be missed! May the Lord hold you close while you Rest in Peace Dr. E ( Dr. Rush.) Fond memories of working with this man. Jayne McCarthy "

"The world lost one of the "good ones" on March 22nd. I graduated from Winter Park High School with Paul and will always remember him as being just a really kind and decent guy who was nice to everyone. Losses like this remind us all to treasure our loved ones and to spread kindness, like Paul did, while we're here. "

"I would like to send my condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Esposito. Losing loved ones aren't easy to cope with but we hold one to the wonderful memories that you have created together. I would like to leave you with a comforting scripture during this difficult time 2 Corinthians 1:3-7. "

"Paul Esposito was more than a friend, he was a force of nature. The world was better for having him in it and has lost something special. His greatest joy was his family - especially his beloved son Tim. We will miss him more than he could have imagined, his family, friend, colleagues and patients - he made a difference in so many lives. "

"Expressing my deepest condolences to Dr. Espositos family. It was a joy to work with him and a real pleasure and honor to know him. He's in a better place now and not suffering anymore. Rest in Peace Dr. Esposito. You will be missed."

"I just heard from a fraternity brother that one of our brothers passed away yesterday from Kidney failure after two months in the ICU. Paul Esposito was always in the center of things as he was in this picture holding the trophy with Mike Angel Denker from the first University of Miami Sports Fest. Rest in Peace Espo. Perhaps the rest of Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity will join me in celebrating Paul's life."

"From Rich Shifman - I posted this tribute to Paul to social media shortly after hearing of the passing of my good friend. It is slightly modified below: So my freshman year in college at University of Miami had some rough patches, and I wasn't always the happiest camper. In fact at one point I was thinking about switching schools. There was this guy who I would see at the elevator in our dorm sometimes. He'd always say hi and talk to me like he knew me. I used to think, that guy is the friendliest guy I've ever met. He had these dark bushy eyebrows, which is what I noticed first about him. He wore what looked like Hawaiian collar shirts--or something like that. I used to think: "Who IS this dude?" Maybe he was so friendly because he could sense that I needed a light shined in my life at that point in time. Because that's what he was to me and to others: A light. Or maybe it was because, as I learned, that was just his way. Over the next few years, he and a bunch of his buddies moved down to the floor I lived on. I joined their fraternity (Sigma Alpha Mu), and that happy go lucky dude at the elevator became one of my closest friends during college. I'm not sure if he considered me one of his closest friends, but he certainly was a true friend to me. Being the warm, kind, generous person he was, he had many friends--he was our unofficial leader, that was for sure. And, many years later, I still count him as one of my closest friends, even though I moved up north and we kept in touch only by phone every few months over the last 30 years. My friend's name was Paul Esposito, and he taught me a lot about the power of optimism and faith. He was like Mary Tyler Moore, turning the world on with her smile...only, you know, he was a dude. I once had a girlfriend of mine tell me it was ok for him to call her sweetie, but that I could not call her that (I kid you not). And it didn't bother me a bit because I totally understood where she was coming from. He was just that charming and charismatic. In hindsight, Paul was "The Dude" before that joker, Jeff Bridges made believe he was the dude. The main thing though, I count myself as better for having known him. Paul Esposito made a positive difference in my life. As he did for many others. He went on to become a surgeon. And I know he helped a lot of people in that regard, because that was his way. As you can probably guess by the tone of this post, Paul passed away today (3/22/2017). I mourn his loss. My heart goes out to his family. My thoughts and prayers are with them. I can't imagine their grief and pain at this terrible time. Paul was a man of faith. One of my keenest memories of him is watching him walk across the intramural playing fields at Miami on Sunday mornings, one of the few students who would go to church, even after a late Saturday night. He professed his faith to me once, and it was only years later that I understood it and told him so. I can hear his cheerful, caring voice as I write this, as I throw shadows at some of the things he would say (I'm sure some of you caught them). He is missed. May Paul Esposito rest forever among the Angels and our Heavenly Father. "

"Paul was the definition of the word "friend ". He was true and kind and my family and I loved him beyond measure. "Mr. Dr. Paul " as my kids called him never came to town without gifts for all of them in hand. Paul did not care about things... he cared about people. He did not need fancy cars or big houses. He knew the true value of life "people". We were all blessed to have Paul in our lives and the memories will cherished forever but we know he is with us everyday in his spirit. Love you Paul. Rest In Peace with God and your mother. Rob"

"My sincere condolences to the Esposito family. Ken Dunn, Fred Hunter Funeral Home"