La Conner Weekly News - Your independent hometown award-winning newspaper

Charles Howard Paul, a lifelong resident of Swinomish, died at age 77 on Sunday, Oct. 11.

Charlie was born July 12, 1938 in Mount Vernon, the son of John and Rebecca Edge Paul. Charlie graduated from La Conner High School in 1957.

He retired from working maintenance for the Swinomish Tribe after 20 years. He also worked for 23 years at the Texaco refinery at Anacortes. Charlie was a commercial fisherman all his life, and he loved being out on the water, especially later in life fishing with his son Derek.

Charlie and Dianna built their own home in 1965 and raised their family here. Charlie was a Swinomish Tribal Senator for 32 years. He loved fishing, visiting the casino, hunting and coaching basketball.

Charlie was preceded in death by his father, John Raymond Paul; his mother, Rebecca and daughter Charlotte R. Paul on March 16, 1973; one brother David Joe; and one sister Norma Johnston.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Dianna; two sons, Dereck D. and Levi D. Paul and Monica; his grandchildren, Levi J. Paul, Jr., Jessie E. Paul, Charlotte R.E. Paul, and Isiah L.K. James.

Prayer services will be held at Kern Funeral Home today, Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 6 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m. followed by burial at the Swinomish Cemetery.

You may offer your condolences and share memories of Charlie with his family online at http://www.kernfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Kern Funeral Home.