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Paul Dachauer Obituary

Paul Leonard Dachauer
October 19, 1933 - January 27, 2021
Paul Leonard Dachauer died peacefully Wednesday, January 27 surrounded by the love of his children and grandchildren.

Paul was born October 19, 1933 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Andrew and Sophie Dachauer. The Dachauers moved to California when he was 4 and made San Francisco, the city that Paul loved, their home. Paul was third in a line of seven siblings: Andy, Tom (Marilyn), John (Rita), Jim (Anne), Mary (Keith) and Anne. Paul graduated from Saint Ignatius and received his architecture degree from UC Berkeley in 1956. After college he completed a two-year tour in the army.

Paul devoted himself to his work as an architect for over 50 years both independently and at Bechtel. But his passion was his work for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. His legacy lives on in the design of many parishes throughout the City and Marin including his childhood parish St. Anne's of the Sunset, St. Sebastian's of Kentfield, and St. Anselm's in San Anselmo.

Paul's true joy and delight was his family: his wife Carol of 32 years, his four children and his 8 grandchildren. Paul married Carol Brennan in 1968 and they raised their four children Paul, Dan (Liz), David (Erika), and Lynn Fusco (Daniel) in beautiful San Anselmo. Lovingly known as "Grandpa Dach" to Dominic, Gianna, Josiah, Obadiah, Noel, Maranatha, Sarah, and Annabelle, he was adored by his grandchildren. Laughter and chaos filled his home whenever the brood was together. His roaring laugher and contented smile told just how proud he was of his family. As he would often say, "total love!"

Paul is preceded in death by his parents Andrew (1983) and Sophie (1991), brothers Andy (2015), Tom (2015), and John (2007) and by his wife Carol (2000).

Paul will be remembered for his humor, his deep love for his family, and his passion for architecture. We will miss you Grandpa Dach but we will see you again - how about next week two o'clock?

A celebration of Paul's life will be held at a later date. Paul will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery on Tuesday, February 9, at 12:00 p.m.

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

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Feb. 3 to Feb. 4, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
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Sal and susan

January 29, 2023

We miss seeing Paul at mass he was a lovely man! Sincerely sal and Susan catinella

Leif Luglan

February 11, 2021

My favorite time with Paul was when he was with David (my son in law) Erika (my daughter) and his/my grandchildren. I loved to get him tell about his architecture business and get along with the children.
I know that he enjoyed it also. (Even though it might have been a second time through the story he was telling us.) What a pleasant man. And what fascinating stories he could tell about his architecture times.

Emily Smith

February 9, 2021

We knew the Dachauers from church, and I babysat for them a few times. My condolences to the family. Your dad was one of the good ones, and he adored his children.

Susan and Sal Catinella

February 5, 2021

He was a long time friend through his children and the church Danny was our sons very good friend Paul will be missed he was always kind and nice to be with he will be missed!

Sean S

February 4, 2021

I got to know Paul through my friendship with his wonderful kids while growing up in San Anselmo. I was privileged to share many moments with him during many visits to the Dachauer house. He was a warm and lighthearted human who always made me feel welcome and significant. I will forever be touched by his kindness and love of a good joke. Of course, I will also fondly remember his amusing anecdotes which were often accompanied by his trademark laugh and were as bountiful as his energy! Thank you for everything, Paul. Sending hugs to the Dachauer family during this difficult time.

Anne (McManus) O'Donnell

February 4, 2021

Great memories of one of my Dad's great friends, probably connected either through our home parish of St Anne's or through the Monitor. My Dad, Bill McManus, was about 15 years older than Paul, but they had great times together. Deepest sympathy from the McManus Family to yours.

kaaren

February 3, 2021

My brother went to school with Paul and I was able to enjoy his company at many SI reunions. I went to school with Anne. Please know that my love and prayers are with all of you. Kaaren Langbehn Alvarado

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