wwphd
what would paul hacker do?
REST IN PEACE - Paul Ashley Hacker
05/09/47 - 08/28/20
If you've found your way to this page, you were lucky enough to be a part of Paul's life. If you don't have a WWPHD bracelet already, please reach out and I can send you one.
We hope you enjoy these tributes to him.
My father did every thing he could, every day he had, for every one he knew.
They just don't make men like that anymore.
these are our stories . this is your legacy
Years ago my father gave me a shirt with the phrase “to be old and wise you must first be young and stupid”. At that time I definitely qualified for one of those things (the later to be specific). As time passed on I started to notice a change and felt like I was moving into a different section of that saying, unfortunately I was moving into the old category but still remaining stupid, and thought the wise portion was evading me. Its funny though, everywhere I wore that shirt (and I did it a lot) people read it and nodded and smiled, and I knew my dad was smiling with them. Today, with two kids in their teens and a wife who has stuck with me for almost 20 years, I think about my parents and how I wanted to be so much like them and that maybe there is a chance that I am moving into the wise category (albeit slowly).
I know everyone thinks their father is the greatest in the world, but my dad was the epitome of the everything father. Not only did he have the most level head of anyone I knew, he also took the time to try new things that many would never consider. He somehow was able to start 6 different companies, one of which proved to be a winner and allowed him to live a comfortable life and provide a working environment that many people I know enjoyed going to each day. My dad also somehow found the time during our youth to go out with his kids and teach us the things that he loved and had learned and wanted to share. I remember one time when I was in high school, and thought fast cars were the most amazing thing in the world (partly due to his love of them), and he went out and bought a truck with a racing engine in it. Of course being a truck it only had two seats but it had a bed with a cover on it and he offered me and my friends the opportunity to lay in the back while he did some 0 - ??? launches in it. What an illegal and terrifyingly dangerous thrill for high school boys, but who else would do that and feel safe about it.
Unfortunately. I know that having a kid like me probably aged him a little faster than most people, cause how many parents do you know that had to take their kid to the hospital more times than their age when he was ten. For me though, the things that I will remember about him most are his incredible patience and willingness to be in the moment. Being an ADHD kid, which I know didn’t come from him, and his constant patience somehow, he help me understand that life is about the journey and if you don’t stop and open your eyes to the things around you, you will miss out on the things that make it what it is.
Even though this ending seems unfair for a person who was so young and seemed so healthy, consider the things he got to do which most people only dream of doing in any lifetime and know that he was able to leave with a smile on his face and love all around from the wonderful people and memories he was a part of.
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-Dustin
First you should know that I am one of the Bob’s aka EZBob or just EZ or just plane old bob.
Unlike the other Morons, which are “full time Morons”, I am a just a Tuesday Moron, which means I am only 1/7th as informed in Moronic current events as the rest.
As a way of showing the other Morons that I know my place, I would start out at the primary Moron table at Pipes next to Paul, but as the other, more senior Morons would trickle in, I would offer up my chair and go sit at the next, closet secondary table. However, because Paul was usually an early show, along with Surfer Dan, I had many, many opportunities over the years to sit next to Paul and engage into conversation that a semi deft person could understand that requires face and eye contact, and clearly spoken, meaningful delivery of simple words about a single subject. Because Surfer Dan was usually trying to finish working on his daily Sudoko puzzle, this gave me the rare chance to go one-on-one with Paul.
Paul and I liked to talk about nuts and bolts, kind of hands on, mechanical things. He had a way of trying to explain more complicated concepts to me in a way that I could understand. Many times, I would open the conversation with something that was wrong or bugging me about something on my 30 year old boat, Grand QTR. The whole time that we were “engaged”, he always had a special “sparkle” in his eye and a smile, almost a grin, on his face. We never talked politics and we never had any kind of disagreement as a result. Paul was a good listener and his wit was quick and funny!
My wife Claudette and I have been spending our last 4 summers in the Pacific NorthWest aboard our boat Grand QTR. This year when I had my last breakfast at Pipes on the Tuesday before I departed in June, Paul was not present because he wasn’t feeling good. I was so afraid then that I would never see Paul again. Like Charlie’s comment, that reality brought a tear to my eyes then, as it is doing now as I type this email to you.
How I remember Paul: Every evening aboard Grand QTR, precisely at sunset, no matter where we are, anchored or at a dock, I go aft to retire the colors for that evening. This is a daily ritual, rain or shine. For the past 3 years, I have dedicated this ceremony to my son Andrew, who is currently on active duty serving in the U.S. Navy. This year, I also committed to add Paul to this very short list. So now, every evening this summer, I have verbally, out loud, uttered “This ceremony is dedicated to my son Andrew and to my friend Paul”. I take the flag staff out of its holder on the aft rail, rotate the flag staff to a horizontal position with the American Flag hanging below the staff and begin to whistle Taps slowly as I start to roll the flag up around the staff. When I finish whistling Taps (a little off key at times according to some critics), I move the staff with the flag completely rolled up around it to my left shoulder and render a hand salute with my right hand as a way to formally close this ceremony. I always have tears in my eyes when I finish, every time...
My tears pass quickly, but my memory of Paul, and the QTR (Quality Time Remaining) that we shared are still alive. The memories of Paul continue to resurface daily at sunset aboard Grand QTR.
To my friend Paul, thank you for the QTR…
With love and my most sincere sympathy,
Bob
Dear Paul,
I apologize for my delayed response, but your latest news left me more than stunned and kind of speechless. Apparently, I needed some time to collect my memories and thoughts. I recall our chance encounter at the Padres-Cubs spring training game shortly after you were first diagnosed, so I knew this was an eventuality that we all hoped would be later than sooner. Still, it could never be "later" enough for those of us who know, respect, admire, and love you. Now, Ruth and I feel especially regretful and disappointed that we lost out on the opportunity to see you and Jill on your recent tour of Arizona.
It's difficult to fully express the gratitude I have for your friendship over the past 17 years, so I will summarize: I am especially grateful for your thoughtful, honest, and straight-forward approach to problem-solving, in both the professional and personal realms. You were always my go-to guy when problems in the parish or complications within our distant family presented themselves. I looked forward to those opportunities to talk to a person I could trust, rely upon for understanding, and who would also keep confidences. You were that confidante, friend, and advisor who invited me to reflect upon situations and circumstances from different perspectives that usually proved to be very helpful. I remain deeply appreciative for your kindness, thoughtfulness, insight and support. Thank you, Paul.
Your "It's Time" subject line is not only grounded in the reality of your personal circumstances, but also conveys--not to my surprise--a deeply theological truth: Life is always about Time. The first entity to be blessed and deemed holy by God was not a place, not a shrine, not a mountain, not a person, but a time. In particular, it was the Sabbath. "God blessed the seventh day and made it holy." We don't always sanctify time as we ought, but your notion of QTR sounds pretty close to the right idea, and I commend you in that pursuit.
My experience with the amazing people of hospice care, whether pastorally or within our own family, has always been a positive one. You are in good hands, my friend. They may not be able to give you all the answers, but they will definitely encourage you to ask the right questions and to actively participate in the plan for your care.
You and I have each been blessed with incredible partners with whom to share this life. The thought of saying good-bye to such a partner has to be among the most painful. No matter how strong, independent, determined (stubborn?), and self-reliant they might be, our spouses will remain without their life-long partner. That can bring tears to our eyes and emptiness to our hearts, as well as theirs. It's a reminder of the solemn gravity of those vows we took so long ago, "until death parts us," when we were so young and death seemed so far off. Life will not be the same for our survivors, and this may well be our greatest concern. Family and friends, we trust, will be present to be of help and support, but you, Paul, are irreplaceable. And Jill knows that. Yet, she will, in time,discover new ways to sense your presence, and experience how memories of your shared history will serve to accompany her into the future.
You have discerned, no doubt, that I am no longer at a loss for words. Given Ruth's current respiratory problems, I can't promise that I will be able to make my way to San Diego this summer, but it could happen. I would be grateful for the opportunity to see you again. If that is not to be the case, then I simply want to thank you, to let you know how you have enriched my life, and to express my gratitude for your friendship and faithfulness.
Peace & Good,
- Fred
I will never forget what you did for our family when Josie was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes. We were struggling, barely holding our heads above water with trying desperately to adjust to a devastating diagnosis and keeping some sort of normal in our family life. We had heard of this new gadget..an insulin pump that would help control and manage Josie's blood sugars, but we didn't even consider it ,as it was way out of our reach, financially. We were just getting used to the monthly expenses of insulin and supplies.
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I remember you and Jill reaching out to us and saying, "we want to do this for your daughter. We won't take no for an answer." No fanfare, no big deal; you just took care of it.
That gift, that thoughtful gift changed everything for us. It put Josie on a path to independence and to becoming a role model and counselor for other children navigating Type One Diabetes.
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There are no words...
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- Annette Gomez
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In the early 1990's, I worked for a company that wrote software for the first tablet computers. After a while, I decided to strike out on my own and start my own software company.
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A week later, I was headed to a SD Sockers game with Paul and Jill. Paul and I went up to order some pizza and we started chatting about Paul and Jill's upcoming anniversary. He talked about reworking her wedding ring as I ate my pizza. When he finished, he started telling me what Jill was going to do for him for the occasion.
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Very casually, Paul says, "I asked Jill if I could fund your company."
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I dropped my pizza.
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More than a little surprised, Paul explains that my friend Eric had told him about what I was planning with my own company. And just like that, Intuitive was born.
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Paul is one of the most supportive and kind people I've ever known. Short of my own parents, no one person has had a more profound effect on my life. He's had this positive effect on more people than I can possibly count.
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- Peter Kevin Reeves
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I was a kid at 18 who, was at a fork in the road of life, when I came to work for you. There were certain men I wanted to pattern my life after, and you, my friend, were one of them... Your life speaks of integrity, compassion, innovation, and kindness.
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- Mikey Gonzalez
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You were:
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1. A success, and one that I looked up to and attempted to emulate since I was a nerdy kid.
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2. Kind. Not only did you not ridicule my nerd-dom, but you celebrated it, both formally and informally... like when you gave me my first job, one that didn't involve a name tag.
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3. A professional. You treated me like one. You treated me as if I had valid, good ideas, when no one else in any position of authority or credibility did.
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4. A father figure. When my biological father died, you were one of the kindest people to me about it. I will never forget the email you sent to the company when this happened. Thank you.
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5. An equal. You have always treated me as an equal. I will never forget a conversation we had in the car one day. As we've both grown older, I have felt more and more that you are someone I confide in. Your advice is always sound, kind, and always from the heart.
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6. A constant. I know I have changed so much since we met, but it seems that you have not. You have remained the same constant in my life since Ronald Reagan was President. Yes, we met when Reagan was President.
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7. Giving. You let me drive all your cool cars, and kept your composure when I was gone for 45 minutes in your brand new M3 during work hours.
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8. Compassionate. Every time we ride motorcycles, you hold back so I can feel like I'm keeping up. Don't think I don't notice that.
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9. Family. You have always treated my family like they are as important to you as they are to me.
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You are family to me, and always have been.
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- Eric Hicks
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Paul has in large part enabled me to carve out a great life for myself and my wife over the past 10 years. We have partnered on many investments that I would otherwise not have been able to afford. He contributed to, believed in, and whole-heartedly supported our unique perspective (of doing things right the first time) as it relates to buying, renovating, and selling properties. It would be easy to look at our real estate deals of a good "return on investment," but for Paul it was equally about being a part of a great social contribution. The idea of providing a great finished product to young families and first time home buyers, coupled with helping rebuild old neighborhoods, resonated with Paul.
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I know that I speak for so many people whom have been positively impacted by his friendship and involvement when I say, THANK YOU.
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- Matt Friedman
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Paul just has a way about him that makes people feel important and valuable.
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- Jim Hawkins
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The opportunity to work for Paul, such a leader that demonstrated a beautiful way of living was something I could not pass up. To this day, it was the best decision I ever made. I continue to believe that working under his leadership helped me develop as an employee enabling my skills and talents, and more importantly as a better human being.
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- Grace Reasoner
So, one day I am in the front yard when Paul Hacker walks by and sees the new skateboard in my son's hand. "Oh, that's a great looking board, let me take it for a spin" says Mr. Hacker. I saw nothing negative about that, so I replied, "sure, have at it."
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Now, it is my belief that native born Californians have certain traits, two of which are expertise surfing and skating skills. When Paul pushed off on my son's skateboard, I came to the conclusion that people originating in the Midwest do not possess the same inborn expertise, as it became evident when my son's board went airborne as did Paul Hacker. The board landed in the front lawn and Paul in the driveway. I asked him is anything was injured and he simply replied, "Only my ego."
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- Ed Fitzpatrick
Paul is one of the most generous, humble, smart, loving and caring men I know. I wish there were many more like him. His character makes everyone that comes in contact with him, better. He has been like a brother to me. Always willing to lend a hand if is just hearing me out and giving me advice to actually coming over and seeing if there is something with my computer, my lights, etc.
After my divorce is 2005 I moved into a small apartment. A year later, Paul and Jill moved from their beautiful, ocean-view home on Chinquapin to Vanessa Circle. It was then that they came to me, asking if I would like to move into Chinquapin. I knew I couldn’t afford that awesome place. I was very upfront with them but they insisted that I lived there, paying way below what they could have gotten. It was overwhelmed by their generosity. It was soooo wonderful to live there for the next 2 yrs. Their generosity knows no boundaries.
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you have blessed so many people, and i am so grateful to be one of them.
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- Maria Pike
Who knew that thru the transaction of purchasing Cobra car rims for my 1999 Mustang from you that it would lead to a job for 18 years and allow me to be a part of a company that I am proud to say I work for. I've always admired the way you lead the company and took the time to show your appreciation to every employee. Your son Dustin is still my "go to" guy for questions and helping resolve problems at work. His wisdom and knowledge is a direct result of your influence on your children's lives.
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- Doris Mecucci
Paul Hacker is the man in the room who, just by being present can lift moods by a laugh, a life story, or an inappropriate joke. He finds the humor in the most humorless of situations and makes those around him breathe a bit easier by doing so.
His generosity is beyond what I have seen in most people. When I was set to move abroad and had no real place to live prior to shipping out, they (Paul, Jill and Aubri) opened their home to my daughters and I with an "of course you can stay there until you get your airline tickets", and with the Navy in charge of that process, who knew when I would be leaving for real. I did leave after 10 days or so, but I will never forget that gesture of kindness and how much stress it alleviated in an already stressful and emotional time. There was no hesitation, or question, just how can we help?
On a whole, I have a hard time believing altruism exists in mankind. However, knowing a man like Opa/Paul I am challenged to accept that maybe it does. Paul Ashley Hacker. They just don't make 'em like that anymore.
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- Jenna Metcalf
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When I think of Paul, my first image and thoughts that comes to mind are his genuine smile and the genuine man he is. It’s hard to find genuine authenticity in people anymore. In our social media driven world with everyone trying to impress everyone with their Instagram life (that is mostly BS) and push people aside to get ahead, Paul has never given the impression to impress or show off his life because he doesn’t have to. He is genuine in his actions, words and life. He doesn’t have to brag about his successes, but we all know and appreciate his hard work in his family, career and life. Actions speak loud enough and genuine people don’t have to boast. Paul has so much to be proud of and could easily walk around bragging to everyone he sees, but his silence in this area is genuine and his life speaks for itself though the person he is, the woman he married, the kids he raised, the people he has influenced, the work he has done, the world he had traveled…the list goes on. Paul is a genuine man with authentic good morals and values. The people we surround ourselves with in life will shape us and thank you Paul for being the man you are. Growing up around good people helped shaped me. I feel honored to also have a father who is genuinely authentic in his life and I wish there were more great men like this.
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On another note, thank you Paul for always opening your home to us “kids”. I always felt welcome and I have memories of laughing and smiling when we were in your home. In your home there was a sense of hard work, but with the perfect balance of letting us know to not take life too seriously and enjoy life! My life has been enriched thanks to the people I was around as I was growing into the woman I am today and I hope I can model for my kids and their friends what was modeled to me…
Love,
Lindsey Pitts
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Paul's generosity to all of his employees was remarkable. The generous Christmas "gifts," offering health insurance, and most impressively, the 401K retirement plan he put in place...something that still blesses me and my family. Paul taught me principles that I follow in my own business more than 18 years later.
- Mike Morace
WASHING MACHINE FIASCO
We had moved to California and purchased our first home in Encinitas. Our new friends became many, including the Hackers. As you all know, Ed fixes things instead of hiring others to do the work. Paul always said that if repairmen relied on Ed, they’d go hungry! So, my washing machine wasn’t working and naturally, Ed took it down “to the bare bones”, then put it back together and guess what? It still didn’t work!! So, he called upon Paul who was familiar with tools and together the men of great minds, took it upon themselves to figure out the problem. They even raised the machine onto sawhorses so they could get underneath it and take it completely apart, motor and all. After many hours working in the garage, a light went on in someone’s brain that maybe the water hose connection should be turned on. Lo and behold, the problem was fixed and now I could resume the task of washing the piles of clothes that had accumulated during the “breakdown”.
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Love, Suzanne and Ed Fitzpatrick
Oh where do I start?!
When Aubri and I started dating she would always talk about her parents and especially her Dad. She would always describe him as her foundation, anchor, rock, and the one she always turned to. She actually said it so many times and so many different ways that I thought for sure I would be meeting Captain “Fucking” America. She told me stories of how many people he has helped in so many different ways that it almost seemed like he was a super hero. I swear to you I thought this man would be floating into the room the first time I met him. Sure enough, Aubri tells me we are going to be having dinner at this restaurant in Carlsbad with her parents at 6:00 pm. I say, “no problem,” because honestly I have never been intimidated by parents. So we head to the restaurant and we arrive a little early because Aubri let me know that her parents are always on time. If you know me, “On time” is not something I am... but, when it comes to meeting the parents of the woman I would eventually marry, you better believe I wanted to be on time.
We walk into the restaurant early, like a solid 10 minutes, and I am thinking this is great because I would rather be sitting when they get here. Well, that’s not how this works out and her parents are there already. Somehow Aubri didn’t mention they like to be 15 minutes early no matter what the event is. A little shocked and confused I start to feel my pulse elevate and my face getting a little flushed. We do the proper introductions and sit down. Now at this point my confidence is completely gone and I am starting to feel small beads of sweat gather on my forehead. I try to divert the conversation onto them but, that doesn’t seem to work and I am back in the hot seat. I quickly down my glass of water and start using my napkin as a sweat towel. Shortly thereafter I see a glass of water come sliding across the table from Paul. He is quick to say, "It looks like you could use another glass." I graciously accept, hoping this would help stop the torrential down poor coming from my body. I felt like an MMA fighter, in a sweat suit, sitting on a stationary bike, training for a match. Eventually, the dinner would be over and whatever dignity I had would be left behind in the soaked filled cushion of my chair. To this day I still hear about 'how funny' that night was. Haha.
Another one of those more memorable moments I had with Paul was fairly early in our relationship when Aubri mentioned to her father how I wanted more kids. Keep in mind we have a large blended family already with 5 kids between us but, this romantic idea was floating around in my head. I kid you not one second after the words had escaped Aubri’s mouth, a shiny 4-inch blade was being waived at my lower extremity. Pretty much at my genitals and stomach region, an action followed by the words “I can take care of that right now.”I quickly laughed it off thinking it was a joke, only later to ask Aubri about it. She said "well, I don’t think he would actually do it but, I am not sure he was kidding either." She has always told me her Dad meant the world to her and he would do anything for her especially if it meant protecting her. I’m pretty sure that means killing someone if he had to. I am now convinced I was closer to death than I had initially thought. Hahahaha…
I realize I haven’t known Paul for as long as some of the other people in his life but, there is a huge amount of respect for him as a Man, Father, Husband, Brother, and Friend. He has raised a daughter I have fallen in love with, a family I respect, and exudes a level of dedication I truly admire. I have come to the conclusion Paul is a “Fucking” Super Human. He may not float through the air like some mythical saint on Gods breath but, rest assured he has successfully touched lives beyond any normal humans ability.
Paul, from the bottom of my heart I want to thank you for all you have done.
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Love,
Cody
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share with you how Paul Hacker has impacted my life. Cancer ripped a huge hole in my heart when my own father passed away 15 yrs ago. Over that span I developed special relationships and bonded with father figures like my Uncle Rogey and Paul. Those guys were similar in many ways I can't describe.
I call Paul on the phone from time to time always seeking his invaluable advice ranging from work life to my dating life. He has this uncanny ability to just sit back and listen, reserves judgement, and providing a lifetime of indispensable wisdom. I've always loved our family get togethers, especially when Peter comes to visit around the holidays. Listening to both of them geek out over conversation cracked me up! I love his sense of humor, his zest for life, and very very calm demeanor. I don't think I've ever seen your Dad raise his voice or lose his composure- which should earn him the moniker Cool Hand Luke.
He once helped me replace my garbage disposal, volunteering his free time, and helping a dude that is not mechanically inclined. I'll always remember the few times I ran into him and his crew at Pipe's cafe shooting the shit. He has always been at the top of my list as one of the most stellar unique men to walk this earth with integrity, a heart full of love, and handsome good looks...lol.
He is the iconic patriarch of the Hacker family and I'm proud to say Paul my La Familia.
Love,
Mikey
Dear Paul-
I will never forget that fateful embarrassing and funny day when you literally towed my car off your Del Mar driveway when I picked up Laura from your house - when I may possibly have accidentally missed the curve!
Somehow that sparked an instant friendship which permanently changed my life in significant ways.
Beginning with our first real estate transaction, and multiples after, your belief in me and validation gave me such needed confidence and the inspiration to continue and stick with my challenging work years ahead.
You and Jill always took the rare and critical extra step to refer me to many of your family and friends. You have no idea how that literally made all the difference in my whole entire attitude and our uncertain financial situation at an extremely important time.
Most of all, I loved the idea that you trusted me with your amazing people, who I really loved getting to know and help as well. I will always cherish the many hours of hanging out during our “working” times - having lots of fun and friendship while getting the job done. I’m sure we solved lots of world problems and family dynamics during those brilliant encounters! I also particularly appreciate you raising up the most wonderful best friend for Laura since 3rd grade- which is continuing on to this day with their families - and forever!
Your absolute signature bright light smile with mischievous eyes - and your wickedly funny sense of humor- always makes the world, and everybody, and everything so much happier and better!
Thank you beautiful kind soul Paul!
I love you!
Connie Harris
For those of us friends and almost family in our minds, losing him was also devastating. I could say a lot of stuff about your good husband and our great friend. But, by now, you have probably heard every comment that could be given about him.
Paul was goodness. I can think back to when we were kids and he always stood out for his fun, kindness and his love for us, his family of other brothers. Mi Hermano.
He was and is a truly outstanding example of how to live life and the values he had for the rest of us. I am not sure I ever heard him say bad things. His goodness prevailed above all else. I have a picture somewhere of the celebration-party we had the night before he went into the service. He had a drink in his hand and a smile as broad as can be. He was having a great time and he did not dread his upcoming military service. Then, there was one time we were with the Lowrey's at John's parents beach house in Newport. I think we were even less then driving age. We were getting into John's Mom's car. Paul and I were looking down the alley at some , let's just say some nice females in bikinis. I thought he was in the car and of course, I closed his fingers in the door requiring medical treatment for him...
But, even up to the current years, when we went to see John, we had an absolute rousing good time. I can sit with these things popping up here and there and it puts a smile on my face. To realize I am not going to share with him in person and in the future, always puts tears in my eyes. Early this morning about 4 a.m., I laid in bed with those tears flowing. And yet, I felt that his spirit lives on within us and those who were graced with having known him and of course, loved him.
So I apologize for this late response. I found it difficult to do, but I wanted to take a few minutes of your time to praise the man I knew for the example he set for the rest of us. God Love Him and God love all his family...
One thing, is it possible for you to send your address? I do not have it.
Best to all and be safe.
adam
Paul & Jill,
I don't know why I thought there would be more time. I don't want Paul to leave this earth without you BOTH knowing how much you've meant to me. There are so many things I wish I'd had the chance to say to my dad and I don't want to pass up the opportunity to tell you how much having you both in my life has helped me feel close to him. You never let an opportunity pass to make me feel like a Hacker! I'll be forever grateful for that! You both have always embraced me, comforted me, counseled me, encouraged me, looked out for me, inspired me, and loved me. You taught me to be curious and adventurous. You have always lead by example with your kindness and love. Thank you for taking me under your wing and always treating me like a daughter and a friend. My life would not have been the same without you.
May your final days together pass peacefully and surrounded with love!~
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Warmly and with MUCH LOVE!
Jan
What Would Paul Hacker Do?
He would do anything for those he loved.
He’d pick you up when you fell down.
He’d laugh his great big laugh and tip his head back if you told him something funny.
And he’d try to cheer you up if you were sad.
He’d always have a warm yet strong shoulder to cry on.
He’d have a drink with you even if he didn’t feel like drinking.
He’d listen intently to anything that you talk to him about.
And he’d give the best advice for whatever it is you needed advice for.
He wouldn’t judge you.
He wouldn’t have all the answers in the world, but he’d help you find the answers if you let him.
Most of all, he’d simply make you happy by just being near him.
Everything is good when Paul Hacker is around.
I fully believe that when Paul Hacker leaves this life on Earth, he will be shinning his big beautiful smile down upon his loved ones each and every moment for the rest of eternity.
Because that’s what Paul Hacker would do.
I love you so much Aubri. I love your Dad and I love your mom, and I feel so very lucky to have you all in my life.
With all the love I have,
Hol
Aubri
Kathy and I were so sad to hear of your Dad’s passing.
He was one of my best friends for over 60 years. Please give our regards to your Mom your brother and all your family. If there is anything we can do to help your family through this difficult time please let us know. I had asked your Dad for your Moms email the last time I saw him a couple of weeks ago but with everything going on I’m sure he had other things to deal with. With your permission we would love to communicate with her and give our condolences but only if you think she is up for it. Again your Dad was my best friend growing up, the best man in our wedding and one of the most loyal and loving friends I will ever have. I will miss him always
Dennis & Kathy Price
Well Pauly, Notwithstanding the fact that I’m VERY busy, I’m taking time to explain to you the impact you’ve made on my life.
Other than my comments below, you haven’t done shit for me other than:
Always, and I mean always, you have been at the ready to fix my mechanical screw ups.
You have been my motorcycle mentor and leader and I cherish the times we were on the road.
You have been my best friend and confidant in every conceivable way.
You emptied my Pee bottle eight times in the three days I spent with you and Jill recovering from the hip replacement. I’m not sure this is a good time to tell you, but I started filling the bottle with apple juice just to watch another round trip!
You have lectured me regarding conservative ideals and I’m happy to say that some of it actually rubbed off on me. None of my liberal ideas have rubbed off on you because you’re too freaking self reliant.
I don’t want you to go because you cannot be replaced. I long for another ride with the big two wheelers where the days were spectacular and the nights were full of laughs and camaraderie.
Your devoted friend who loves you dearly,
Charlie
Paul and I have been friends for only a few years. We became closer friends when Paul and Jill joined our Friday Pedal Pushers bicycle rides. When I was diagnosed with the exact same cancer that plagued Paul, He was the first person to offer both moral support, advice, and additional knowledge about the disease based on his experience. I appreciated his wise counsel and his sharing what I may encounter when I began my own chemo treatments. From that point on, I referred to Paul as my"HERO" Paul insisted that he wasn't worthy of that title, But I think he was.
Based on Paul's commitment to offer help to other cancer patients, I have resolved to follow his example and to pass along any advice that may be helpful to other cancer patients.. Paul was a good friend (as is Jill) he suffered mostly in silence, but we knew he was not doing well. And his family, especially Jill, offered constant support during this difficult journey. May he rest in peace!
Laurel and Lauren Wasserman
i had this idea
driven by fear
of the way we wait
for death
​
to say the most
important things
​
to honor
to celebrate
and to appreciate
those who mean the most
to us
​
too late.
​
i was terrified
that you
would never know
the lives
you touched
and the way you changed
me
​
and us
​
and them
​
​
how you didn't just
raise the bar
but
you built it
​
and now
​
here i sit
my heart overflowing
from damp eyes
​
as i sift through
the stories
of the lives
you touched
and the way you changed
them
​
and us
​
and me
​
​
confronted now
with the opportunity
i sought to create
​
my turn to say
my piece
​
but
​
saying nothing
​
because,
the right words
simply don't exist
​
and we both know
that even if i could
find them
​
those words that
evade me now
​
it would break me
to speak them
out loud
​
but i can't live with
too late.
​
so take these words
simple and few
​
and know that
within them
lives everything
​
i cannot
possibly
say
​
but
everything
​
i am.
​