Paul James Penrose

When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. My first thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated, and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Paul James Penrose who was indeed a born manager. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Paul was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with Paul knew him as a well-respected man who was a stable force in his community.

His parents were Howard and Bernice Penrose. Paul was raised in Nevada City, California. Even as a youngster, Paul learned to be objective and decisive. His faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.

As a young boy, Paul was able to put his natural abilities to work. He was organized and direct. Paul was raised with 2 brothers, Richard aka Dick, and Wade. They were well-known throughout their small community. In school, Paul was as close to being a model student as one could imagine. He sought to achieve perfect attendance in all of his classes. He would eagerly complete his homework, and often put in extra study time when he felt it was necessary. A logical and focused thinker, Paul was always good at following directions and meeting his schedules, whether they were set by his teachers or were self-imposed. Paul’s motto could well have been, “Do it right the first time.” He graduated from Nevada Union High School in 1958. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. His favorite class in high school was math. Paul played football and participated in track.

Paul’s practical work ethic carried over into his college years. His logical mind permitted him to work hard without succumbing to the usual distractions of college life. He would tackle an assignment and work through it before moving on to the next project. Paul’s orderly nature gave way to establishing personal study habits and procedures that not only helped him stay on track but often put him ahead of schedule. When Paul saw the need or benefit, he would willingly take on the extra assignment or even attend extra classes to learn more and become a better student. He earned his BA in Liberal Arts from San Jose State University and then became a Certified Public Accountant under the guidance of his brother Dick.

Paul was sociable and approachable. Paul had a great sense of humor and enjoyed the camaraderie of being with a group of friends. When Paul was a member of a group, his interaction worked to keep the others grounded. Those close to Paul came to expect his high standards of performance but also knew that he was kind, affectionate, and loving. While growing up, some of his best friends were his brothers Dick and Wade, and Hank Hummel. Paul had many friends, many of them from all over the world, Australia, Taiwan, Japan, and the US.

An objective and conscientious individual, Paul reveled in the security of his family. One of Paul’s most endearing qualities was his uncanny ability to remember important dates and anniversaries, and his unending enthusiasm for organizing a celebration for his family and friends. Paul was blessed with one son, James David Penrose aka Jim, and they were also blessed with three, Guerin, Andria, and Natalie.

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Paul was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. An excellent project supervisor, Paul was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. He worked cooperatively and expected the same from his colleagues. In both his personal and professional environments, Paul upheld his standards. His primary occupation was as a CPA (Certified Public Accountant). He was employed with KPMG. Paul was a team player who certainly lived out the motto of “give me a job, and I will get it done.”

Paul approached his leisure time in the same manner that he approached his life. A person who enjoyed being neat and orderly and one who understood the nature of things, he appreciated the hours he was able to devote to his various hobbies. His favorite pursuits playing golf and traveling. Paul was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes and willing to share his interests with others.

Playing by the rules was a natural thing for Paul to do in life and that carried over to his enjoyment of sports. In high school, Paul played football and track. Recreational sports included golf. He also was something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were golf, football, basketball, and baseball.

Paul was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of Paul’s favorites was a cat named Clyde.

When Paul’s retirement finally arrived in 1990, he was well prepared. He used his critical evaluation skills to make sure that every detail had been preplanned and attended to. His new life involved relocating to Orange County. In retirement, he found new pleasure in golf and buying and selling businesses. In many ways, Paul loved retirement. It provided him with the opportunity to catch up with his friends, attend functions and group outings, and tackle new interesting activities.

Paul passed away on November 25, 2022, at Providence Hospital. He is survived by his son Jim, daughter-in-law Monica, and his three grandchildren. Services were held at Pacific View Memorial Park. Pacific View Memorial Park.

All who knew him would agree that Paul was a pillar of the community. He lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Paul James Penrose did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched was given the chance to become a better person.