Paul Edward Ertter, 87, of Damascus, MD, passed away on May 18, 2026. 

 

Born in Washington, D.C. on May 11, 1939, he was the son of the late T. Frank and Gladys I. (Wells) Ertter.

 

Throughout his life Paul had a passion for all things related to cars, from racing to restoring to fixing.  He was a mechanic by trade his whole life.  Paul loved a good political debate and was an avid history buff.  

 

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Sally Ertter.  Along with his wife, Paul is survived by his children, Laurie Watkins and husband, Daniel; Tammy Ertter; Michael Ertter and wife, Erica; and Scott Ertter and wife, Cheryl.  He is also survived by his grandchildren, Kelly, Michael and wife, Katelynn, Braeden, Jackson, Reagan and Gabriella; and his great-grandchildren Sydney and Samuel.   Paul leaves behind his lifelong friends and partners in crime, Penny Belt and Norbie Kaelin with instructions to carry on with the fun and mischief. 

 

The family extends their appreciation to the Emergency Department staff at Frederick Health Hospital, with special thanks to Dr. MacFague and Nurse Maggie for their support and compassion during a very difficult time.

 

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 27th from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Road, Barnesville, MD. Inurnment to follow at Boyds Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 19901 White Ground Rd, Boyds, MD 20841. 

 

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the Damascus Volunteer Fire Department or the Alzheimer’s Association.