Paul Edward Wainio

Raised in Marquette, Paul gaduated from Graveraet High School in the class of 1960, where he excelled not only academically but athletically, playing football, basketball, and running track. His love for education led him to Northern Michigan University, where he pursued a degree in art education, further enriching his knowledge by obtaining a master’s degree in education.

On June 21st, 1970, Paul married Katherine Wainio (Lambros). Together, they built a life filled with love and shared interests. Before embarking on his teaching career, Paul honed his craft of design and lettering skills at Cook Sign Service, where he diligently worked for ten years. His work could and can still be seen in signage of multiple businesses in the Marquette area over the last several decades.

His fondness for expression and creativity led him to a rewarding teaching career that began in Flint and eventually drew him back to Marquette, where he inspired young minds in the Gwinn Area Schools. Paul’s enthusiasm for the arts and education was evident to everyone he taught until his retirement in 1996.

Paul remained active in his adult years playing men’s softball and city league basketball. In his spare time, he became a master gardener providing enjoyment for his family and neighbors.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Katherine Wainio; his children, Aimee (Rich) Katona of Canton, Michigan, and Andrew (Cecilia) Wainio of Detroit, Michigan; his grandson, Alfred “Alfie” Wainio of Detroit; his sister, Janet (Kenneth) Vickstrom of Marquette, also survives him.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends are invited to call at the Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral & Cremation Services on Friday, June 14th, 2024, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm. A Trisagion service will follow at 7:00 pm. Funeral Services will be held at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, located at 36375 Joy Road, Westland, Michigan, on Monday, June 17th, 2024, at 11:00 am, with visitation one hour prior. Paul will be laid to rest at the Grand Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Greek Orthodox Church of Assumption, 926 N. Third St., Marquette, MI 49855. The Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral Home and Cremation Services is serving the family where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.