Mr. Paul Paul J. Craft

August 30, 1960 - June 13, 2010

When Paul Craft passed away unexpectedly on June 13, he was living his mantra: “Kindness, Joy, Love and Happiness.”

Paul recently described his path as leading him toward “new directions, a new era and a wonderful journey." His many friends and family take solace in knowing he had already achieved many of his dreams during his too-short life.

Embodying the spirit of his favorite tale, “The Little Engine That Could,” Paul returned to school at age 39 for his BS degree at Mount Saint Mary’s College while working as senior executive director for information technology services at UCLA. He continued his drive for knowledge by earning an MS in psychology at The Mount in 2008, where he was vice president for institutional advancement at the time of his death. Always striving for more, Paul entered UCLA’s Ed.D educational leadership program in 2009, where fellow Super 17 classmates remember him for his unique blend of passion, intelligence, clarity and calmness. He was nothing less than an inspiration.

Whether volunteering at a food kitchen, campaigning for human rights or playing with a new tech-toy, Paul’s spirited can-do optimism was infectious to everyone around him. He could light up the room wherever he went.

But more than anything, Paul loved the people in his life. His deep compassion extended to overlapping circles of family, friends and colleagues, leaving each person warmed by their personal connection with him. All will miss his sincere attitude, genuine kindness and great humor… and especially his treasured friendship.

Feeling the loss while celebrating his life are Paul’s cherished husband and muse Allan Penales of Los Angeles, beloved parents Homer and Mary Craft of Chula Vista, brother Ted Craft, and sisters Veta Wright and Paula Mundorf. He was preceded in death by brother Phillip Craft and is also survived by 3 nieces and 4 nephews.

Friends are invited to reflect on the Kindness, Joy, Love and Happiness that Paul brought to his world at a memorial service on July 9, 2010, at 11 am in Mary Chapel, Mount St. Mary’s College, Chalon Campus (12001 Chalon Road, Los Angeles, CA 90049).