Paul Wozniak

Paul WOZNIAK 1956 ~ 2011 Paul Wozniak, beloved husband of Diane and father of Hayley, Hanna and Christopher, died suddenly in Seattle on June 21, 2011. Paul was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Arthur and Eleanor Wozniak on January 24, 1956. Paul grew up between dairy farms and urban parks, fascinated by the way cities and communities were designed to create a sense of purpose, belonging, community and home. He met his wife, Diane, while completing a degree in planning and environmental studies. They fell in love and realized their shared dream of moving to Seattle in 1978. Paul bicycled, canoed, hiked and explored the beauty of their new chosen home while completing a master's degree in geography and urban planning at the University of Washington. For 32 years he loved seeing the resulting applications of his work: saving salmon streams, planning the first Microsoft campus, mapping out linked bicycle trails , and being a part of the evolving growth of his chosen home. Paul married Diane in 1984 and in his family life he loved coaching soccer for small beginners and being a loyal supporter on the sidelines of his three childrens' athletic fields as they participated in soccer, baseball, softball, cross country and track. Paul, whenever asked how he was, unfailingly responded: "Never better!" He welcomed each day as a chance to volunteer and be of service somewhere, for church or schools or the broader community. In his parents' tradition, he especially enjoyed barbecues and catered events to celebrate special events or simple togetherness. A highlight was his six-year food prep for the Washington Middle School and Garfield High School auctions. With professional chefs and fellow parents Thierry Rautureau of Rover's and John Platt of St. Cloud's, he delighted in this successful annual fundraiser for students. Paul was preceded in death by his parents. He leaves behind his wife and three children, many in-laws, nieces, and nephews, and countless friends in Magnolia and beyond. We will have a service and reception in his honor on Saturday, July 16, at 2 p.m. at the Church of the Ascension, 2330 Viewmont Way West, in Seattle. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any hunger/feeding program or another charity of your choice.