Parishioner Paul Whaley is a world record holder. Well, he probably holds the word record at St. Anne’s for length of service as a lector -- 20 years. And he’s working on another record as cashier for coffee and donuts – he’s been doing that for five years.

Paul is not only a pillar of the church, he’s a pillar of the community. He’s lived on Queen Anne Hill for 70 years and – until recently – in the same house (for which he paid $18,000) on 1st N. for 40 years. He graduated from St. Anne’s School and Queen Anne High. And all five of his children also graduated from St. Anne’s School.

Staying the course
World War II left its mark on Paul – but it was all good. He was drafted in 1946, after the war was over, and served just long enough in occupied Japan to qualify for the GI Bill. Discharged after 14 months of service, Paul attended the University of Washington, graduating with a BA in economics. He then launched a career with Graybar Electric Company, which lasted 37 years. As you can see, once committed Paul stays committed.

His commitment to St. Anne’s has included an eclectic range of volunteer activities: Principal of CCD, Boy Scout volunteer, Italian Dinner waiter – even a role in plays staged by the Parents’ Club years ago.

Paul learned the importance of voluntarism from his mother. “She was active in the church bazaars,” he recalls, “and I just thought I should be involved.” And if you’re wondering what you should do, Paul’s has some advice: “Step right up and get involved. You’ll be a lot better off for it.”