1964

scmintern@scu.edu

J. Paul Heinzinger MBA ’64 was many things: friend, husband, father, papa, brother, teacher, carpenter/mechanic, engineer, manager—and always quick to lend a hand. Paul was a devout Catholic. He showed how to be a Christian by living the Gospels through his acts of kindness, putting others before himself, doing the right thing even when hard, and showing care even in simple day-to-day situations. He was happiest when with family or serving others. Born in Seattle on Dec. 11, 1924, to John Paul and Nina Heinzinger, he graduated from O’Dea High School and immediately went to serve in World War II, first at Pan Am and then in the U.S. Navy as an aviation radioman. He later earned an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from Seattle University in 1954, a master’s in electrical engineering from Stanford University in 1956, and a master’s in business administration from Santa Clara University in 1964. Paul worked for Pitney Bowes, Lockheed, ITT Berack Electronics, and Ford/Loral Aerospace. In 1957, he married Mary Lou Ryan, and together they raised four children. Paul was a dedicated father who always made his family the priority; he sacrificed career opportunities and recreational activities for his wife and children. He never tried to force his children to live his dreams but supported them to explore their own dreams. His love, guidance, and support gave them the confidence and courage to take their own paths in life. He loved being involved with his children, Boy Scouts, Catechism, sailing, flea markets, riding bikes, and completing projects. Paul was an accomplished amateur radio operator, sailor, wood worker, and handyman. Paul and Mary Lou lived in California until their retirement to Marrowstone Island in 1990. During retirement, he greatly enjoyed finishing their home, having coffee with the men, square dancing with Mary Lou, having family and friends visit their Island home, and being an active part of his grandchildren’s lives. He was always sharing his talents and helping others by volunteering for United Neighbors, ECHHO, local organizations, and numerous Marrowstone Island groups, as well as always being ready to help a friend with a project. In 2011, Paul and Mary Lou moved to Spokane, Washington. He passed away peacefully with his daughters by his side on June 18, 2017. In addition to Mary Lou, his wife of 59 years, Paul is survived by his son Mark (Kathleen) of Modesto, California; Greg (Kerstin and grandchildren Cassandra and Talia) of Del Mar, California; Nina (Dave and grandchildren Miriam, Peter, and Matthew) of Helena, Montana; and Rita (Jim and grandchildren Cooper, Becca, and Hunter) of Spokane, Washington. He is also survived by his sister-in-laws Gladys Heinzinger of Marrowstone Island, Jean Oxley of Laramie, Wyoming, and Marjory Ryan of Cheyenne, Wyoming, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Paul is preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Ruth and Mabel, and his brothers Grant, Lee, and David. 

08 Nov 2018