Paul Vawter Obituary

Aug. 16, 1948 - June 5, 2017 Paul Michael Vawter of Everett, WA, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2017. He was surrounded in love by his sons, Alan, Jacob and Isaac Vawter, his brother, John Vawter, nephew, Zac Vawter and his partner of 24 years, Colleen Robinson, as he passed. Paul was a proud Marine, enlisting in 1967 at the height of the Vietnam War - he didn't wait to be drafted, and worked his way through two medical exams to become a Marine. After completing his enlistment, Paul moved to Fairbanks, AK, with Bendix Field Engineering to track satellites for NASA. Paul returned to Washington State in 1981 to work at Honeywell as a VAX Systems Administrator. In 1987, he joined ATL as a Data Center Manager, working there until 1990. He then joined Snohomish County PUD as a SCADA Engineer until his retirement in 2010. At PUD, Paul kept the lights on for all of Snohomish county. Known for his Andy Rooney style eyebrows and contagious laughter, Paul had a lifelong love affair with hot black coffee, a good glass of whiskey and never letting the facts get in the way of a good story. He lived his life exactly the way he wanted to. His favorite hunting trips were taken with co-workers from PUD, coming home with wild turkey for the freezer. He enjoyed fishing of any kind and spending time with his sons on the water, where he was always at peace. Paul's favorite quote was "it was a great system until you added the users." His family would like to thank the outstanding staff of Providence Regional Medical Center - ICU nurses Lindsey, Chris, Tiara, Stephanie, Troy, Brent, Laura and Elisha; respiratory therapists Scott, Krista and Daryl; and Doctors Hartung, Tsen and McGoodman who brought peace, comfort and dignity to Paul's last days. Paul was born in Longview, WA, to Forest and Clementine Vawter. Paul is survived by his mother, Clementine, sister, Linda, brother, John (Pam), and his three sons Alan, Jacob and Isaac (Laura), all of whom he loved and touched deeply. He was preceded in death by his father, Forest. Beloved by his friends and family, Paul was a constant source of joy and strength to everyone who knew him. A memorial service will be held from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 16, 2017, at the Snohomish County PUD Electric Building Headquarters, 2320 California Street, Everett, WA 98201 in the Commission Meeting Room. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations in Paul's name to Providence General Foundation to support the mission and work of Providence Regional Center Everett.

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Published by The Herald (Everett) on Jun. 7, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul Vawter

11 Entries

Kristi Treckeme

June 14, 2017

I had the privilege to work with Paul at the PUD. His smile was contagious and it made you smile. He was a great guy with a wonderful sense of humor and caring heart. Condolences to all of Paul's family

Garth Williams

June 14, 2017

Sorry to hear the news of Paul's passing. I enjoyed working with Paul over the years and appreciated his straight talking nature. Rest in Peace.

Lindsey F

June 12, 2017

It was a great honor meeting you Colleen and caring for Paul; a great man is always surrounded by great family. Praying you feel continued peace in this most difficult time.

June 11, 2017

We were very saddened to hear of Paul's recent passing. We lived next door to his sons Issac and Jacob for many years enjoying seeing them mature into two great young men. He will be sorely missed by Issac and Jacob and his many friends. Jim and Pat Lee

Melinda Cooper

June 9, 2017

When I think of Paul, I remember his beautiful smile and his funny laugh. I'm so glad to hear he did what he wanted to do in life, that all that matters.

Dave & Jane Roberts

June 9, 2017

We were sorry to hear of Paul's passing and our heartfelt condolences go out to his family. We enjoyed our time with Paul working at PUD and his laughter and common sense approach to keeping the lights on during major storms and assisting his co-workers while working long hours. Paul was a proud veteran and always had a great story to tell. He would share stories about his Son's and how proud he was of them and their accomplishments. Paul was a gentleman and would not hesitate to help anyone in need. We will miss him and that great smile.

Elisa Knobloch

June 8, 2017

Jacob and Isaac will leave you a beautiful legacy of which you can be most proud!! Praying for all family and friends who knew Paul.

Bob Badham

June 8, 2017

Just learned of cousin Paul's passing. We're currently visiting cousin Marcia (Jon) in California. Jarleth and I loved having Paul join us on many occasions while Paul was stationed in Hawaii. He was a kick! He truly loved life and our three boys really enjoyed playing with him. The four of us (Jarleth, Bob, Marcia, Jon) send our heartfelt sympathy. Aloha Paul, and mahalo for all those good memories!!

Zeda Williams

June 8, 2017

My heart goes out to Paul's family and friends. Special thoughts and prayers to Colleen.

June 8, 2017

Paul's laughter is a memory that can be brought up at a moment's notice. He brought joy to many - so sorry to hear of his passing. Jana E.

PJ Donner

June 7, 2017

I am sorry to hear of Paul's passing. Paul was a great guy we would share all kinds of stories and jokes together. He was a great teammate on the project we worked on together. He was a great pool player and we had a blast playing darts. He like a good beer and we shared many together.
RIP my friend......
PJ Donner

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