Paul Vlaardingerbroek, age 73, passed away on March 28, 2026, in Orem, Utah. He was born on April 21, 1952, in Clovis, New Mexico, to Elbert and Verona Vlaardingerbroek, both of whom preceded him in death. Paul was raised in Bountiful, Utah, where he grew up with his brother Austin and sister Nancy in the same family home. During his childhood, his family spent a brief period in his father’s native Netherlands, but after just three months, a pull back to Utah’s mountains and the outdoors brought them back home. Paul came from a modest upbringing that helped shape his strong work ethic and practical nature. He attended Viewmont High School and later completed one year of college. He began working for Greyhound Transportation before building a career as a brakeman for the Rio Grande Railroad. During those years, he became known to many simply as “Broeks,” a nickname that stuck among his coworkers. At the age of 42, Paul made a transition that reflected both his skill and independence, dedicating himself full-time to clock repair. Having learned the craft from his father, he developed a deep expertise in restoring wall clocks, mantel clocks, and grandfather clocks. He restored many timepieces with care and precision, taking pride in both the craft itself and the livelihood it provided for his family. Paul met his wife, Christine Jane (Chris), at a dance hall, where a simple meeting turned into a lifelong partnership. They were married on March 17, 1978. Together they raised two sons, Ryan and Justin, and built a life centered on family, devotion, and shared adventure.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Christine Jane Vlaardingerbroek (July 21, 2024); his son, Ryan Vlaardingerbroek (March 25, 2021); and his sister, Nancy Janney. He is survived by his son, Justin Vlaardingerbroek (Heather); his five grandchildren, Nicholas Martinez, Tanner Vlaardingerbroek, Sariah Vlaardingerbroek, Carter Vlaardingerbroek, and Kaitlynn Vlaardingerbroek; his brother, Austin Vlaardingerbroek; and many extended family members and friends. Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Christine Jane Vlaardingerbroek (July 21, 2024); his son, Ryan Vlaardingerbroek (March 25, 2021); and his sister, Nancy Janney. He is survived by his son, Justin Vlaardingerbroek (Heather); his five grandchildren, Nicholas Martinez, Tanner Vlaardingerbroek, Sariah Vlaardingerbroek, Carter Vlaardingerbroek, and Kaitlynn Vlaardingerbroek; his brother, Austin Vlaardingerbroek; and many extended family members and friends.