Paul Henry Dann, age 60, died at his home in Richland, WA, May 23, 2017, after living with cancer for 8 years. He was born October 8, 1956, and raised in Oak Harbor, WA. Paul was a highly regarded and respected elementary educator, spending 24 years of his career in 2^nd and 4^th grade classrooms in the Richland School District. He continued his career in education at Marcus Whitman Elementary as principal until he retired in 2012.

            Paul’s proudest personal achievements were the births of his children, Geoff, Greg, and Claire. He was always most satisfied when his kids were happy and following their passions, including Geoff’s Ph.D., Greg’s M.D., and Claire’s Master’s.  He never took credit for his children’s successes and he was always their biggest champion.

            Inspired by his father, Paul was an avid gardener, outdoorsmen, and traveler.  In Richland, he found great pleasure and satisfaction in musical theater productions, church choir, and Mid-Columbia Mastersingers.  The importance of building relationships permeated every aspect of his life, whether it was in the classroom, on the sidelines, or in the audience.  Professionally, Paul was one of a small group of educators awarded both the Southeastern Washington Teacher of the Year (2003) and Southeastern Washington Principal of the Year (2010). He had an innate passion for children and inspiring people to become their best selves. This lives on through the many students, colleagues, and friends he had the pleasure to know.

            Paul’s wicked wit and sense of humor are carried on by his loving wife, Mary, and their children. He had a special closeness to his dog, Holly, who preceded him in death.

            Paul’s memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 30th, at 4:00 p.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church in Richland. There will be a reception to follow at the church. Memorial contributions may be sent to Richland Education Foundation, P.O. Box 1759 Richland, WA 99352 or the charity of your choice.