It is with great sadness that the family of Paul Arthur Brunkow announces his passing on Friday, October 20, 2017. Paul was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on May 13, 1929. He received his undergraduate in Journalism and graduate degree in Law from the University of Wisconsin and was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. Paul worked for the Wisconsin State Journal and Capital Times before enlisting in the Navy. Stationed in Japan from 1952 – 1954, Paul served as a journalist for the Navy during the Korean War.
On a blind date, Paul met the love of his life, Joan Audrey McLaughlin and they were married July 7, 1956. Paul and Joan moved to California where he was the manager of the Redwood City Chamber of Commerce. They had two daughters, Ann in 1965 and Jane in 1967. He continued his career in public affairs after moving to Texas in 1973 and served as Regional Director of Public Affairs for the National Association of Manufacturers.
After retirement Paul was a dedicated volunteer at the Armand Bayou Nature Center. He also volunteered every Friday delivering Meals on Wheels and was a member of the Lions Club and Rotary. After being a lifelong Catholic Paul joined his wife as a confirmed Methodist at Clear Lake United Methodist Church.
Paul and Joan took delight in traveling to Cloudcroft, New Mexico; Switzerland, Alaska and cruises. He loved playing golf with his buddies and was an avid fan of his beloved alma mater, the University of Wisconsin. Go Badgers! Paul enjoyed listening to Frank Sinatra, Glenn Miller and Nat King Cole. He also loved good food, a glass of wine and the occasional Harvey Wallbanger. With a quick wit and always a smile, Paul was as good natured and kind as they come.
He was preceded in death by parents Arthur H. Brunkow and Adelia Fecht and sister Jeanne Franklin. He will be lovingly remembered and missed by his wife, Joan Brunkow, his daughters Ann Cook and Jane Wilbanks, his sons-in-law, Jeff Cook and Benny Wilbanks, and his granddaughters Audrey Wilbanks and Emily Wilbanks.
A memorial service will be officiated by the Reverend Sheila Castellano at 11:00 am, Friday, November 10, 2017 at Clear Lake United Methodist Church, 16335 El Camino Real, Houston, Texas 77062.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.crowderfuneralhome.com for the Brunkow family.