Paul Seabert peacefully passed away as the result of lung cancer on Oct. 14, 2022, at home, surrounded by his family and dogs. In his life, Paul carried many titles, including husband, father, grandfather, brother, school counselor, business owner, Mr. Downtown, Vicar’s Warden, community volunteer and Mr. Fix It. What defined Paul, however, was not only the titles, but the way that he made people feel. Kind, welcoming, fun, wise and compassionate described him.

Paul, born in Akron, Colorado on Dec. 17, 1938, attended Colorado State College before beginning a career in education at Weatherwax High School. In 1982-83, he was named Washington State Counselor of the Year. He later transferred to Timberline High School and eventually retired after more than 30 years in public education.

Small family business was a center point in Paul’s life. For years he made trophies and plaques at Seabert’s Custom Awards in Aberdeen. After retiring from education, he co-founded and owned the Olympia toy store favorite Wind Up Here. He firmly believed in “shopping local.” Paul served multiple terms as president of the Olympia Downtown Association and, in 2000, was named Person of the Year for his decades of service.

Paul believed in making the community better and volunteered for many organizations. He ran the 4-H goat barn at the Grays Harbor County Fair, advocated for kids as CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), and was deeply involved with Big Brothers, Big Sisters, including serving as board president and as “big brother” for over 25 years. In 2006, he was honored as a Champion for Kids.

St. Benedict’s Church in Lacy served as Paul’s spiritual home. Each year, the Diocese of Olympia gives a small number of Bishop’s Cross awards to those whose very lives embody the spirit of Christ. Paul will posthumously receive that recognition on Nov. 22, 2022, for his tireless contributions to St. Benedict’s.

Throughout his life, Paul worked to make a difference in the world. He loved rodeo, old cars, zydeco music, football, a “good deal,” his dog Ivy, cooking favorite foods, sweet treats and a hot cup of coffee.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Baros Friedt; his daughters: Andrea Seabert Olsen (Karin Olsen), Denise Seabert (Matt Bailey) and Jessica Friedt (Benjamin Emerson); and grandsons: Clark, Nathan and Elias Bailey, and Jack Seabert Olsen. Paul and prior spouse, Judy Seabert, also parented Becky Reflow Case, Butch Reflow, Melinda Brooks, and a host of foster children. He is also survived by siblings, Linda Downing (Tom) and R. Dan Seabert.

Memorial services will be Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022, 2 p.m. at St. Benedict’s Church in Lacey. In lieu of flowers, consider honoring Paul by donating to Big Brothers, Big Sisters in Olympia, St. Benedict’s Church, or an organization that makes a difference for kids. To read the full obituary and share memories, please visit www.FuneralAlternatives.org.