Paul Newton Richelson was born on February 7, 1916, the son of Paul George and Irene Downing Richelson. He was raised by his grandparents, John and Hanna Downing. He graduated from Montpelier High School in 1933. He married June Quayle July 30, 1938 in Soda Springs, Idaho. Following her death in 1977 he married Betty Lou Pugmire January 13, 1980 in Nevada. He died on October 20, 1994 and was buried in the Dingle Cemetery. His last known residence was in Fish Haven, Bear Lake County, Idaho 83287.