Paul Robert Trudell
9/2/1937 to 1/17/2022
It is with great sadness that we share with friends and loved ones the passing of Paul Robert Trudell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.
Paul was born in 1937, in San Diego, to Bertha Lackey Trudell and Paul Robert Trudell, Sr. Paul attended Sacred Heart grade school in East San Diego and St Augustine High School (Class of '55) where he played football. After high school Paul enlisted in the US Navy, serving on the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CVS-12). He married the love of his life, Mary Costello, in 1959. Paul attended the University of San Diego and then transferred to the University of San Francisco where he graduated with a BA and MA in Business before earning a Juris Doctorate. Paul later earned an MS from Hastings Law School and an LLM from UC Berkeley.
While in school, Paul supported his growing family by working as a carpenter part-time during the school year and full-time in the summer. Following Law School graduation, in 1966, he joined the Alameda County Public Defender's Office where he served thirty-three years as an Assistant Public Defender. Paul remained loyal to his humble roots as a carpenter and a Navy serviceman. Paul was a 65-year member of the Carpenters Union, who rarely missed a meeting of Local 22.
Paul is survived by his wife Mary, of 62 years, who he deeply loved and adored, and their five children: Ruth, Kathleen, Susie, Tricia, and PJ. He also leaves behind 13 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Paul is additionally survived by his brother George Trudell and his sisters Bertha Popeny and Margie Morrison. He is predeceased by his siblings Sr. Rita Trudell and John Trudell.
Paul was a beloved family man, patriot, active community member and leaves behind a legacy of service and mentoring to all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. He was truly loved and will be deeply missed.
Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Holy Sisters at the Carmelite Monastery of Cristo Rey, 721 Parker Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94118-4227
Services will be held this weekend at St. Hilary Catholic Church in Tiburon, CA

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jan. 23 to Jan. 25, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul Trudell

9 Entries

Sandy Amborn

March 23, 2022

I was very sad to learn about Pauls passing. I worked in the PD´s office 1970-1973 as a legal secretary. He was a great guy and I was happy we saw him in our hometown of San Luis Obispo on his trips through here.

Gus & Mary Jane Geraldi

February 22, 2022

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Nora Wong

February 2, 2022

I was a new attorney when I met Paul. He had a great booming voice and a fun personality. He would tell me a lot of war stories of his trials. He was very friendly and kind. I am sorry for your loss.

Elizabeth Rogers

January 31, 2022

I am so sorry to hear the news. Paul immediately offered to help me get acclimated on my first day in the PD's office. He was kind and generous and loved to tell some great PD stories. He got along with everyone. I am sorry for your loss.

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Davia Rouda

January 31, 2022

Paul was the most incredible neighbor and friend we could have asked for. He would call us up when the fruit started dropping from the trees and ask if the jam was going to make itself or were we going to be able to make it this year. He loved Apricot and Plum blackberry. Those were the two we made every year. We love and adore Mary and Paul and Mary and I will continue to "jam" in Paul's honor! All my love to the family forever and always! Davia and Brian

Bob Callan

January 31, 2022

Very sorry to hear about Paul. Fond memories of our years at USF Law School. Always enjoyed seeing him at various events over the years. RIP.

John Lynch

January 25, 2022

Very sorry to hear of Pauls passing. He was full of great stories and information when we would meet up at the monthly Union Meeting and was a active supporter of the annual Fr. Peter Yorke Memorial. God Be Good To Him!
John Lynch

Joy Walsh

January 25, 2022

Prayers for you all. Many memories of fun times in high school.

Christine Macdonald downs

January 24, 2022

RIP Paul. As a trustee for ACERA, you helped move the organization and investment strategy toward a more modern and self sustaining model. You were a good listener and kind to staff.

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