Paul Gjefle chose to complete his life's journey on November 14, 2011. Born in LaCrosse, Wisconsin on April 24, 1961, he grew up learning some of life's most valuable lessons on an active dairy farm. He earned his BS in Computer Science from Bemidji State University and his MS in Computer Science from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Paul was a Senior Research Scientist at PNNL, a much loved colleague and friend for over 20 years.

He married Alison on November 17, 2001, embarking on the powerful journey of becoming a husband and a step-father to three young children Marina, Kendra, and Hayden. Paul approached this new adventure with the same determination and spirit that infused everything he did, adapting to life with an instant family and doing everything he could to help his new children grow and develop into exceptional young adults. His guidance, insight, and quiet yet powerful example was a critical influence in their lives. He understood how important it was to model for them the things he most wanted them to learn while also honoring and respecting the importance of their biological father in their lives as well.

Paul and Alison were together nearly ten years, enjoying many long walks with the dogs, summer evenings with a glass of wine on the patio, and far too many other special times to list here. Throughout everything they always kept their focus on protecting and nurturing their family, with a deep love rooted in friendship and caring for each other that continues forever.

Paul took great pleasure in many things, especially the powerful bonds with his beloved dogs Kodi, Sage, and Terra. There were many long walks along the Yakima River, through the open land near Badger Mt. Park, and up the forest trails near White Pass. He volunteered to help with the new dog park, and on his birthday would go to the Humane Society to find out what items were most needed and then donate them instead of asking for a birthday gift.

Paul was quiet, strong, humble, approachable, and a consummate professional in every way. When he laughed it lit up the room, and when he spoke it was with intelligence and common sense. He was the first to volunteer when help was needed, fix something that needed fixing, or take care of whatever needed to be done, without ever expecting anything in return. Paul gave his all and asked for nothing, a quiet and dignified man who preferred to let others receive the recognition and attention.

Paul is survived by his wife Alison; step-children Marina Ruckhaber, Kendra Gjefle, and Hayden Ruckhaber; sisters Tena Boberg Great Falls, MT and Aelene Faecke Bemidji, MN; brother Gerald Gjefle Fallbrook, CA; nephews Darin Angie Boberg Raynesford, MT, Derek Heather Boberg Great Falls, MT, Thomas Denise Gjefle Fallbrook, CA, and Michael Gjefle Fallbrook, CA; nieces Rachel Jeff Koch Bemidji, MN, Andrea Aaron Feia St. Paul, MN, and Mary Tony Bray Fallbrook, CA; and many great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gabriela and Burton Gjefle.

The family is deeply grateful to all who have provided so much love and support. In lieu of flowers we suggest remembrances be made to LivingWorks livingworks.net; Tri City Dog Park Society tricitydogparks.org; Benton Franklin Humane Society bfhs.com; Pet Over Population Prevention popptricities.org; Mikey's Chance Dog Rescue mikeyschance.com; or your favorite animal rescue organization.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30pm on December 2, 2011, at the Memories at Sunset Event Center 915 Bypass Highway, Richland. We invite all who knew and loved Paul to join us as we remember and celebrate the extraordinary man he was. Remembrances and messages to the family can also be shared online at www.einansfuneralhome.com.