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BORN
1947
DIED
2015
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Paul Waldner Obituary
1947-2015
Paul F. Waldner, III died peacefully in his sleep on April 10, 2015. He was born on July 12, 1947, in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, the second of nine children. Moving to Texas, Paul attended Houston schools and ultimately graduated from South Texas College of Law. He practiced law in Houston for over 35 years and was a "justice seeker" extraordinaire. His dedication as a trial lawyer will long be remembered and respected by both his clients and his peers. He was always willing to "fight the good fight" for those in need. Paul belonged to many professional organizations: The American Board of Trial Advocates, the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, the Houston Trial Lawyers Association (past president) and the Texas Trial Lawyers Association (past president). Paul was a volunteer for Sheltering Arms Senior Services for over 28 years and a Life Member on the Board of Directors. Paul loved his family and friends dearly and was known for his abundant generosity. He was also a gifted story and joke-teller who never failed to keep everyone laughing.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Ann Norton and Paul F, Waldner, Jr. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 43 years, Marian Catherine Snow Waldner, daughters: Jennifer Waldner, Amy Waldner and spouse James Dickerson and Casey Waldner; grandchildren, Harper and Paulie Dickerson; siblings Cece Abel, Steve (Wes) Waldner, Maggie DeLaGarza, Mary Rice, Theresa Jane Cumming, Cathy Sievers, John Waldner, Larry Waldner and their spouses; sister-in-law Carolyn Burkett, brother-in-law, Joe Snow and spouses; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews; and dear friends Charles McAughan, Sharron and Collin Aldridge, Kent Twyman and Dianne Yount.
The family would like to thank the caring staff at Garden Terrace, especially units B and D, with special thanks to Paul's angels, Suzette Williams, Renee Nwadike and Jewel Jefferson for their years of compassionate care and devotion.
A visitation and vigil will be held from 5 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2015, at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home. The vigil service will begin at 6:30 p.m. Funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 17, 2015, at St. Michael's Catholic Church, 1801 Sage Rd., Houston, TX 77056. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Neighborhood Centers, Inc. www.neighborhood-centers.org (please specify funds to benefit Sheltering Arms Senior Services).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paul Waldner
Sponsored by Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home & Forest Park Lawndale.
Lara Isaac
August 7, 2018
I feel terribly to just be finding this out 3 years after Mr. Waldner's passing. I had the fortune of working with him through advocacy during the Christopher Pittman trial in Charleston, SC about 14 years ago. He was a very compassionate man who seemed to truly believe in the work he was doing. I am very thankful that our paths crossed and am so sorry to learn of his passing. God Bless Mr. Waldner and his loved ones.
Lynn Cole
February 20, 2018
Very sad to learn, after all this time, that Paul is no longer lighting up the world. He was the funniest person I've ever known (his short stories were hilarious), and the most genuine. He loved his family more than anything. He will be missed.
October 9, 2017
I grew up in Bellaire and in Holy Ghost Catholic parish with Paul. Our parents and families were very close. I have wonderful memories of happy times together. May he rest in peace, Mary Jane Blackburn Smith
Midge Bolatto now Rosenberger
October 8, 2017
My daughter and I worked for Mr. Waldner as court reporters doing depositions. He was the finest lawyer we knew. He was such a gracious person. Laura and I have spoken of him often in the past several years, always with warm memories of a beautiful person. Rest In Peace, dear man.
Chris Holmes
September 2, 2017
My sincere sympathies to his family, I worked with Paul when we were stationed in Okinawa in 1965 we worked together everyday. When I arrived at my next duty station in 1967 We again worked together. I considered him my best friend then as I do now. The minute you met him he was an instant friend. RIP
Forrest Morris
February 5, 2017
I was shocked to see that Paul had passed away. I had not been in touch for years, but remembered him often. What a wonderful person! We were good friends and he worked for me at NASA while going to school for his law degree.
I remember with fondness the memories of our years together. I knew his wife Cathy and his father. I was so sad when I read of his passing today. I will always remember his wonderful personality, his precious spirit, his smile and SO much more. Thank you, Paul, for the precious memories!
December 29, 2016
Paul was a great man.
Lawrence Taylor
James Mandel
July 4, 2015
The brighter candle does not burn as long
James Mandel
Thomas Swanson
April 25, 2015
I just learned that Paul passed away. Paul was a mentor to me and helped me learn the art and skill of litigation. In short, he was a great man who was taken too early. I do not pretend to know God's plan but I do know that he resides with the Angels. Thomas B. Swanson, Attorney at Law.
Ashley Waddell Tingstad
April 22, 2015
Paul brought so many smiles and laughs wherever he went. And he inspired all of us to be better, more generous people, and to work tenaciously in the pursuit of justice. I send my love and condolences to his beautiful family.
Marilyn Flynn
April 19, 2015
Still can't believe he is gone.
Shannon Bowles
April 18, 2015
Sending Love and Prayers for comfort with our sincere condolences this week. Peace be with each of you -|-
Pat Willis
April 17, 2015
I have never meet a better human being than Paul. I remember Paul as always having a smile and being positive and that's why I always liked to be around him. Cathy and family,I am sorry for your loss.
Andrea & Hormoz Kazemzadeh
April 17, 2015
Dearest Cathy,
Just wanted you to know that Hormoz and I are here to support you through this difficult time. Our sincerest condolences for you and your family.
April 17, 2015
Paul- Thank you for all of your time and advice you gave to me as a young lawyer trying to learn my way. From the very first time I met you when you were the Judge in my first Mock Trial, and then as I went on to practice law, you were always more than willing to share your wisdom and experience with me along the way. I really enjoyed and appreciated our many conversations. You are missed by many. May you rest in peace!
Marcy Young
April 17, 2015
Cathy, Sorry for your loss. Paul was such a wonderful human being. His smile and warm hearted happy way will never be forgotten. Truly one of the funniest, smartest and most caring persons I've ever met. You were and are still fortunate to have each other and have such a wonderful sweet family. Blessings.
Jeff Jackson
April 16, 2015
John and Family,
I share your sorrow in the loss and your joy in Paul's release from suffering. I am praying for God's peace to cover you.
Sincerely, Jeff Jackson
Gateway Hill Country Church, Dripping Springs, TX
Mary Poyer
April 16, 2015
Dear Cathy, Jen, Amy and Casey,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you
as you say goodbye to your beloved husband and father.
I will forever remember Paul's contagious smile and ready laugh and the love you always showed to one another.
Jim and Maria Murray
April 16, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time...condolences, peace and much love!
Angie Shetler
April 16, 2015
My family always had so much respect for Mr. Waldner. He had a way of being compassionate, funny, smart, and could put any situation at ease. I will never forget the best Donald Duck impression ever! Mrs. Waldner, Jennifer, Amy/family, and Casey - thinking about you all.
Cathy and Mike Pugh
April 15, 2015
Having Paul as a friend was truly an honor. Paul helped his friends enjoy life just "a little more" each time they were with him. We send love, hugs, and prayers to the entire Waldner family. Cathy, we love you and place our arms around you and your sweet family. May God bless you and guide you in the days and months ahead. Love and peace ...
Scott Taylor
April 15, 2015
I just learned of Paul's passing and want to send my condolences to his family. Paul was a good friend & will be missed..
Scott Taylor
Rita Rivera
April 15, 2015
Condolences......
April 15, 2015
Cathy,
Know that you and your family are in my prayers ... that you all may be filled with comfort and the peace of Christ. Paul was my friend and an inspiration to me. This world is a lot smaller without him.
God bless you all.
Steve Harrison
TTLA President 2012
Nick Dinneen
April 15, 2015
Kathleen & I feel we've known him from the tales told in our company, so we salute a kindred spirit, free and irreverent, open to grace, to love, life, and an impish wink--
Lift up and soar, Paul!
Patti & Jim Lloyd
April 15, 2015
My heartfelt condolences to the family. May your memories bring you peace whenever you think of him. May God Bless you all.
April 14, 2015
I'm so sorry for your loss. May you have peace and comfort during this time. Acts24 : 15
Tom & Joan Ruth
April 14, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Waldner family. May you find peace and joy in the memories you share.
Michelene & Paul Campise
April 14, 2015
Cathy, so sorry for the loss of your sweet husband Paul. May God Bless you & your daughters as you heal during this sorrowful time. May Paul rest with God & All the Angels & Saints. Your friend, Michelene
April 14, 2015
My condolences. Paul was a wonderful person.
Judge Vanessa Gilmore
April 14, 2015
Paul was such a fine person and a truly beautiful spirit. He was a person to hold in the utmost respect. MMP
April 14, 2015
Paul was a dearly loved and respected trial lawyer who exhibited the best in our profession. We will miss him greatly but he will long be remembered among his TTLA brethren. Bill Whitehurst, Past President, TTLA
Ronnie and Bob Cusack
April 14, 2015
Our love and prayers are going out to you our dearest Cathy and your beautiful girls. You, along with the rest of us, have been blessed with so many wonderful memories of Paul and just knowing him made our life even better. He was so very special in so many ways and always had a smile for everyone. May you all feel comfort in the love he gave you. We love you, Ronnie and Bob
Sean Tracey
April 14, 2015
Paul was a great human being and a terrific lawyer. His humor was only outdone by his humility. I worked with him on his last group of cases and thoroughly enjoyed his presence. He has been and will be missed but not forgotten.
Joe Barr, MD
April 14, 2015
I knew Paul through the AAOS course we used to do every year in various cities. His presentations were always entertaining and informative.
The Waldner Family has been amazing over the past several years keeping so many friends up to date, thanks so much.
I bekieve that Paul is in a Better Place and we will all see him again some day.
Tom Bickham
April 14, 2015
I had the privilege of meeting Paul years ago at a TTLA sponsored Trial College he was attending as a faculty member coaching young lawyers. He was energetic and enthusiastic about helping each and every one of us that attended those three days and I never forgot how helpful and encouraging he was to each of us. He obviously loved the law and enjoyed passing on his great wisdom to each of us.
Bill Laubach
April 14, 2015
I knew Paul both as an attorney and as a client. He was the most honest and ethical lawyer I have ever known. I was unaware he was ill and it came as a shock to learn of his death at such a young age. My prayers are with the family and God bless them.
Dan Perkins
April 14, 2015
Paul was an incredible warrior, friend, comedian, lawyer and blessing to all with whom he came in contact. I was blessed to know him for years as we worked together in Texas Trial Lawyers Association. When I saw Paul, we always talked about serious issues, but ended up laughing our heads off with each other. He made a great impact on this world for the short time he was here. He was an example of one of my favorite quotes, "You do not have to change the world, just the part you can touch." Looking forward to seeing Paul again soon. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Thank you for showing us what the love of Christ is all about, through your love and caring for Paul. Blessings, Dan Perkins, Greenville, Texas.
Molly Werner Garza
April 14, 2015
My most sincere heartfelt sympathy to the Waldner family and friends. Even in high school, Paul was one of the "good guys always having a kind word for everyone.
Gordon Carver
April 14, 2015
Paul was a gifted and ethical trial lawyer. We had many cases against each other and I considered him a friend and a fine man. I know he cherished and loved his family as he spoke of you all often. He had a fantastic sense of humor and a warm smile that always made me ready for another zinger.His word was his bond- he will be missed, but always remembered fondly.
April 14, 2015
It's been said that people remember you most for how you made them feel, rather than what you said, or even did. Paul said and did many great things; but most importantly, he made us feel better, knowing that he truly cared, and did what he could to make things better. My sympathies to those closest to him, which is a large number of really good folks. Tim Sulak
S. Scott West
April 14, 2015
Paul will be missed. His legacy will live on by virtue of his tireless pursuit of justice and fighting the good fight. He was a man amongst men. Many of us are better people and lawyers because of Paul Waldner. May God bless the Waldner family.
April 14, 2015
We have such special memories of Paul and all the family. Cathy, and all the Waldner family, we will keep you in prayer. God Bless.
Roland and Eilleene Keith
April 14, 2015
Sadly missed and quietly remembered every day. No longer in our life, but in our hearts forever. Paul was such a wonderful person and he will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. My deepest sympathy to the family for the loss.
Ginny Stegent, Houston Texas
Lauren Lindsay
April 14, 2015
Jen, sending hugs to you and your family at this time. What a wonderful life he had. He made a difference and you are carrying on his legacy.
April 14, 2015
I was fortunate and proud to have served under Paul's inspiring and passionate governance of Sheltering Arms. His life demonstrates the power of a single human to positively impact the lives of thousands of others.
Peace to Paul, and peace and strength to his family and friends.
Beth Sanders Moore, Dallas
Mary Owens
April 14, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Waldner family during this time of reflection and celebration of Paul's life.
Rick Trevathan
April 14, 2015
I am so saddened to read about Paul. He was such a great person to be with, always upbeat with a smile on his face. I did not know that Paul had been in the Corps. I now know that was an underlying reason as to why I instinctively liked him. I will miss him.
Liz Hoelscher Edwards
April 14, 2015
My deepest sympathies to Cathy, children and the entire Waldner family. What a gift God gave us when he created Paul. May all the wonderful memories you have with him bring peace to each of you. I can't help but think there is a party in the heavens tonight with him bringing much laughter to all especially his Marine buddies who went before him. May God hold all of you in the palm of His hands during this difficult time. Thank you Paul for being there when I needed you. You are forever etched in my heart.
Mike Bole
April 13, 2015
Our thoughts & prayers go out to the Waldner family. Lots of memories from the old neighborhood & at Mt Carmel. Rest in peace, Paul.
Craig Ball
April 13, 2015
I knew Paul as a colleague in the plaintiffs' practice in Houston and a Houston Trial Lawyers Association Board member. He was a lawyer with a caring heart. An idealist in a practical way; Paul reminds us that law is a calling in the best of us and carries a duty to use our training to help others. That's how I will remember Paul: grateful for his service to the profession and the community..
Michelle Beale
April 13, 2015
Paul was a wonderful man who cared deeply about people. I was fortunate to have known him.
Marvin Bailey
April 13, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of grief. Thanks for the sacrifice you made in sharing Paul for the many years you did. A man whose life defined "dedication".
RUDY FOJTASEK
April 13, 2015
PAUL YOU AND I WERE IN MARINE CORP BOOTH CAMP IN SAN DIEGO CALIFORNIA IN 1965 I GOT TO KNOW YOU VERY WELL I ENJOYED MY TIME WITH YOU. YOU WERE AN OUT STANDING MARINE. THANKS RUDY FOJTASEK SEMPER FI
April 13, 2015
Dear Cathy, Jen, Amy and Casey: My heart-felt sympathy and deepest condolences. I will always remember that young Marine vet who sat next to me in philosophy classes, and aced them He has a special place in my heart. (PS Sociology statistics, not so much.)
Marilyn Flynn, UST '73.
Ashley Petersen
April 13, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with the Waldner family. I am so sorry for your loss. Much Love, Ashley Petersen
Rachel Unverzagt
April 13, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with you all! Sending a big hug to you Kathy!
Alice Oliver-Parrott
April 13, 2015
My heart aches for your loss. Paul was such a magnificent human. He was a terrific, caring lawyer and advocate, but more importantly, he inspired all of his professional collegues to be betterpersonally and professionally. He made us smile. He made us proud. To his family, thank you for sharing this wonderful man and know that his journey continues.
April 13, 2015
My siblings and I grew up with the Waldners in Bellaire, Texas and we all went to Holy Ghost Catholic school. Our parents were very good friends. May he be at peace and know that many are thinking of him. Mary Jane Blackburn Smith
Rhonda Turner and the Turner Family
April 13, 2015
Paul first entered our lives in Dec 1995. He brought us through a very tough time then. We loved him as our own. His spirit and humor were genuine and we needed that in our lives. We will deeply miss him. We extend our love and prayers to Cathy and the kids. May God bless and keep you!
April 13, 2015
Paul gave new meaning to the words "an unforgettable character" - he was indeed and always will be. Sending energy for healing and comfort to you all. Jane Bavineau
April 13, 2015
We were very sorry to hear about Paul, we have known him a very long time. He was very blessed to have such a loving family and friends. We prayed daily for God to help him. He was such a wonderful man and he will truly be missed. We pray for his family to give you comfort and peace during this time.
Bryan & Betty Mansell and family
John Landa
April 13, 2015
Paul was such a wonderful friend and colleague. Although we were on opposite sides, he always made me laugh and he was a very worthy--and always trustworthy--opponent. Knowing Paul made me a better person and a better attorney as well. We also enjoyed good times at the golf course. What a positive attitude, and great sense of humor! I will miss him. Much love to his family.
Mills Ariail
April 13, 2015
Paul was an unbelievable friend, attorney, father and husband. He changed my life and showed me what it meant to be an attorney while at the same time being an unbelievable father and husband. He will be greatly missed and may God strengthen and protect you during this time. Much love.
Glenda McDonald
April 13, 2015
Cathy and the girl you are in my thoughts and prayers. Paul was a great guy and influenced may lives all the way to the last day of his life. Blessings and Peace to you.
Cesar Sola
April 13, 2015
Paul's unparalleled love to his family was a great influence on many, including myself as a husband and father. Thank you Waldner family for allowing me to know Paul. Peace be with you all during this difficult time.
April 13, 2015
May God grant His strength, peace, and comfort to Paul's family. Semper Fi Marine--RIP
Kathleen C. Holt
April 13, 2015
Thinking of you all, Cathy and girls, and the Waldners, and praying for God's love to be felt in your loss...Paul lived such a full life, even during the last years. God be with you, offering you peace, rest and calm in the days to come. May his memory fill you all with good and warm thoughts and feelings as you gather to celebrate his life, one well lived.
Elsie Biron
April 12, 2015
Thank you for the wonderful memories, Paul, you shall always be in our thoughts -- most especially when there is laughter and happiness, for you gave us these with your every opportunity. We have each been truly blessed being your friend. Elsie
April 12, 2015
May God cover you with his blanket of love and comfort. Ray and Pam Benson
April 12, 2015
You all are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless.
Roland and Eilleene Keith
Chaz De La Garza
April 12, 2015
Paul's passing is certainly bitter sweet!
God love you Paul!
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