Hi! I’m Paul Knier and love being a part of The Faces of Big Lake project.
My wife and I have lived in Big Lake for 28 years and have raised all 5 of our children here. I have, and continue to be, very active in the Big Lake Community. I am a business owner here and Big Lake’s current Mayor. I am very proud to be able to serve our community.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am the youngest child of 10! We grew up in Clear Lake. I have been married to my wonderful wife for almost 30 years and we have 5 children ranging in age from 25 years old to 15 years old. Our set of twins are 23 years old.
Q: How long have you lived and/or worked in Big Lake?
We have been here since 1994. We have spent all 28 years in the same house!
Q: Tell us about your current, past, or future career.
I own Paul Knier, Inc. dba Cabot Lodge Securities – a financial advising company. I have owned my own company since graduating college in 1992 and then also took over for my dad and his financial business when he retired in 2008. I am a 3rd generation financial advisor behind my dad and my grandmother before him. My grandma started in 1950, which was quite unusual at the time. It has very much been a family business. I am also the Mayor of Big Lake currently.
Q: Have you ever had a nickname? What is it and why were you given it?
No, I never had a nickname. But honestly, I always wanted one!
Q: What is your favorite TV Show, Movie, Book? (Please list as many as you’d like!)
For TV, my favorites include Jeopardy, Survivor, Amazing Race, and M.A.S.H. For books, The bible, of course. 🙂 I also love the Chronicles of Narnia series and anything about presidential history. Saving Private Ryan is probably one of my all time favorite movies – a great story with a lot of emotion.
Q: If you could only eat one food/meal and have one beverage for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I would have a filet mignon and water.
Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies or pastimes?
I play basketball about two times a week. I also enjoy golf, playing guitar, singing, tennis, and working out. I love to help people – philanthropy and serving at church. I am also dedicated to healthy eating.
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
To see Big Lake be debt free
Q: What has been a challenge you have had to overcome? (Life, School, Work, etc.)
I think working my way through college was one challenge. In order to pay for school I worked and earned money by selling books door to door. Learning to run a business, handling rejection in business, living on a commission and building the business are also challenges I have overcome.
Q: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I wish I could jump higher in basketball!
Q: Who has been a hero in your life?
My parents are my heroes. My dad grew up poor, was a Marine during WWII, ran successful businesses, and put 10 kids through private school. My mom raised 10 kids and was a true example of a loving parent.
Q: What is something even your family and friends may not know about you?
Some people may not know that my wife and I do intermittent fasting, are gluten free and eat only organic whenever possible.
Q: What is your proudest accomplishment?
Having the privilege of being Mayor to the best city in the world.
Q: What are a few of your favorite businesses / restaurants in Big Lake?
As the Mayor and Chamber member, I am well acquainted with the businesses in Big Lake. They are all fantastic. They are generous and do so much for the community. I’m excited to see what the future hold.
Q: What is one of your favorite things about Big Lake?
The people. Big Lake residents have such pride.
Q: What advice would you give to people living in Big Lake?
Use your gifts to make Big Lake an even better place. Find a good church community.
Q: Who is an interesting person in our community that you’ve met and deserves to be included in The Faces of Big Lake project?
Hannah Klimmek, Deb Wegeleben, Ken Geroux, Barry Fluth, and Mike and Marnie Wipper
