Meet Paul

MAKE A MAN the Unfinished Life of Paul Koors (1979-2018)

In the summer of 2018, Paul Daniel Koors’s life was coming into focus. At 38, he had completed his ENT residency, moved his young family to Connecticut, and begun a new job rooted in public service. A gifted singer and guitarist, he had just finished recording his second album of original songs. Surrounded by family and friends, with meaningful work and creative momentum, everything seemed to be falling into place.

On August 29, Paul collapsed during a workout and died suddenly from a ruptured aorta. His death shocked all who knew him—a kind, capable, and reflective man in the prime of life. He left behind a loving family and a body of music that offers rare insight into his inner world. His songs, many autobiographical, explore doubt, purpose, service, love, and what it means to be a man. Though deeply humble, Paul was always taking stock, keenly aware of life’s fragility.

Paul’s path had not been easy or direct, but it was guided by service and creativity. From volunteering in Calcutta, New Orleans, and with people with disabilities, to pursuing medicine and quietly wrestling with its demands, he lived with intention. Music remained his constant companion, a place for honesty and self-discovery. Through this foundation, we share Paul’s music to honor his unfinished life, support aortic dissection research, and encourage songwriting education—so that his voice, and others like it, may endure.