Paul J. Wapner

Paul J. Wapner, of Philadelphia, PA, formerly of Baltimore, MD, passed away on Wednesday, October 21st, 2026, at the age of 29. He is survived by his beloved wife, Amber Chaves Rojas; adoring mother, Marla Aaron Wapner (Alan Hess); loving father, Jack (Barbara) Wapner; treasured grandmother, Betty Aaron; cherished mother- and father-in-law, Adriana and Aquilino Chaves; sweet sisters-in-law, Carolina and Camila Chaves; step-sisters, Samantha (Jason) Hirschel and Shelby Bart; and many extended family and countless friends. He was predeceased by his dear grandparents, Dr. Herbert Aaron, and Evelyn and Dr. Paul M. Wapner.

Paul was a gentle, brilliant, funny, and deeply caring young man whose 29 years were far too few.

A Beth Tfiloh Honors student and a highly ranked and talented varsity singles tennis player, Paul went on to graduate from Vanderbilt University with a degree in neuroscience. A lifelong sports fanatic, he loved not only watching and analyzing games but also sharing his passion with friends, whether debating a play, breaking down a matchup, or talking sports for hours. His devotion to the Baltimore Ravens was unwavering, and sports remained a source of joy, camaraderie, and connection throughout his life.

Paul continued his studies at Temple University’s Lewis Katz School of Medicine, aspiring to become a psychiatrist. This ambition reflected the compassion and deep care for others that defined him throughout his life. After completing his first year of medical school, he received the devastating news that he had an incurable brain tumor, an aggressive astrocytoma in his cerebellum. Despite the many challenges that followed, Paul continued his medical studies and remained at the top of his class, a testament to his extraordinary intellect, dedication, and perseverance.

For five and a half years, Paul lived with his diagnosis with extraordinary determination while holding fast to his ambition to complete his medical degree and his desire to find joy in every day. Through it all, there were cherished moments of laughter, connection, and the unmistakable spark that made him Paul.

Paul shared a profound love with his wife, Amber, whom he met at Vanderbilt. Their life together, and the devotion with which they cared for one another, were among the greatest joys of his life. He was surrounded by cherished friends, many of whom had been by his side since childhood, who loved his wit, valued his loyalty, and remained close through the hardest years.

To his mother, Marla, being Paul’s mama was—and will always be—the greatest privilege of her life. He brought immeasurable joy and pride to her and to Alan Hess, his beloved “D2.”

Paul died peacefully at home, with Amber and his mother beside him. He leaves behind an absence that can never be filled and countless memories of a young man who touched lives simply by being himself. He was deeply loved, and his warmth, humor, and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Services at Sol Levinson's Chapel, 8900 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, MD 21208, on Wednesday, October 28th, 2026, at 12:00 pm. Interment at Garrison Forest Cemetery of Chizuk Amuno. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Brain Tumor Society. The family will be in mourning at Citron Restaurant, 2605 Quarry Lake Drive, Baltimore, MD 21209 on Wednesday immediately following the interment, and Thursday from 4:00-8:00 PM, with a service at 7:00 PM both days.