Tuesday, January 21, 2014

To our Friends and Family...

We are asking that you please share those special moments that you had with Paul or your wishes under the comment section.  Thank you.  - The Li Mandri Family

26 comments:

Unknown said...

One of my favorite things about Paul was his laugh. Even in the tougher times, he always greeted you with a smile and a "Ohhhh nooo!" :D Thank you Paul! Love, Chris and Frank

Unknown said...

He brings a smile to my face when I see him shrugging his shoulders, dancing, to tunes from 92.5, Violeta

cbear said...

This is difficult. I remember tutoring in the back of his 3rd grade classroom and he would always wave to me and smile at me. I also remember visiting him in the hospital and how convinced he was that he would beat his illness. He just kept joking with me and my husband Marco. He is a very strong beautiful person and I am proud to have watched him grow into the wonderful man that he is.

Anonymous said...

About 4 years ago, Fred and I took Paul miniature golfing. He had already lost feeling on his right side and was having a difficult time putting with his left side.........he hit a hole in one three times!-Chrystal

Unknown said...

I was a freshman in high school when Paul was a senior. Paul was definitely one of the "cool" kids, and just about everyone knew him and liked him. Confident, outgoing, funny, captain of the football team, and foremost VERY popular with the ladies. In contrast I was this geeky band nerd who hadn't yet figured out how to do my hair or find my English class. It would have been super easy for Paul to ignore me entirely, or worry about associating himself with someone so uncool, but he did the exact opposite. Any time I passed within eyesight of him in the quad or hallways he would immediately come over or call me over and give me a huge hug. He'd introduce me to all his friends always saying "You guys know my awesome cousin Marianne?" He didn't know it, and I never told him, but his actions and sphere of influence had a positive effect on me for the rest of high school. I was never a victim of any "mean girl" behavior. All the pretty cheerleadeeder types who might have engaged in such bullying knew I was Paul's cousin, and so through some kind of magical vicarious popularity accepted me without question. I was never teased for being in band or wearing the wrong jeans. In fact, hysterically several girls mysteriously sought out my company and I eventually began to find it hysterical when, inevitably, they'd ask "SO, you're Paul's cousin right?" But even more than that, Paul's acceptance rid me of a lot of the insecurity that plagues so many people as teenagers, and as a result I too, was confident, and unafraid to talk to any of my peers. To this day, that is the Paul I think of when I hear his name.

Aunt Lisa said...

Paul was brought for my wedding in Albuquerque when he was just a little boy and through the years I never spent as much time with him as I have since his motorcycle accident. One evening we shared a meal sitting across from each other on a picnic table in the park across the street from the Burger Lounge. We talked about sports and wood working. In the years to come I would learn to appreciate his great sense of humor and comedic timing. He always welcomed me with a smile. We talked bout movies and dogs. I have come to admire Paul for his ability to approach life with humor and grace. So often in the last few years I have thought of Paul and considered how I might learn from the way he faces his tribulations. I mention him to friends as sort of a ‘guru-master’; this is how it’s done, I’ve seen Paul do it, if he can we can.

Unknown said...

I use to babysit Paul and Chrystal when Marco and Laura were first dating. I think Chrystal was about 6 and Paul was around 3 or 4? She always wanted for me to put makeup on her. So one night I was dolling Chrystal up and Paul comes over to me and says, " Put makeup on me too, I want to look like a clown!" Oh, from the mouths of babes! Those two were the cutest kids!

Anonymous said...

I didn't meet Paul until after his motorcycle accident. His strength and positive attitude amazed me. I couldn't help but admire him. -
Denise Hebdon-DeRieux

Liam McEnery said...

When Paul was about 6 or 7 his Aunt Angela and I took him and Chrystal to Disneyland. Chrystal wanted to go on all the rides. But Paul held back, due his apprehension. Either Angela or I would stay with him at the ride exit and wait for Chrystal to finish the ride. He was always relieved to see that she came through unscathed.Obviously that was the last time Paul was scared of anything mechanical or thrilling. That small boy blossomed into a brave, independent, resolute, take-no-prisoners-lifestyle type of man. Never again did he not "go for it". Right down to the end and into his NEW beginning, Paul was fearless. Uncle Liam

Anonymous said...

His Aunt Angie: I left San Diego right before Paul was born, off to live my own life. Over the years when I visited, there were stories and memories of Paul eating so much to the point of puking, putting on a good pout at a family photo when I got married, and bull-headed and eager to do his own life. Later, Paul would drop in at some family occasion or another and there would be a 'Paul siting.' He was independent, on his way into his own life. I usually took a quick picture of him or us to have record of this quick meeting, a literal snapshot of his growing up. I have these scattered throughout my photo albums but they are still rare since he was busy. When Paul broke his legs and hand, I was able to be there to help with wound care so we had a month to hang out. He was a guy who liked to match. I met some of his friends who took him on outings. He would come back from the swap meet with matching slippers, hoodies and sunglasses. From his back room recovering from his injuries, he watched his Opa sweep and shook his head about how long and slow that process took. More recently, in August, when he was very sick again, I was at his bedside and he was groovin' to music while holding my hand. His verbal responses were slower so when I asked him, "What are thinking about as you listen to this music?", there was a long pause and then he found the words and blurted out, "Girls." Then we both a a big laugh but, I also cried and he could not see my tears as we stayed like that with him cradling my arm.

Anonymous said...

In the early years of Pasta Stop, I recall Paul, running around, always with a smile, asking, Aunt Kelly, can I have a quarter?, and his uncle Nick always tring to get a broom in his hand. He didnt have time for such noncense as he was too busy living. Later, when I was going thru my own battle with cancer, I would see Paul at our family gatherings and he would say with that infectious smile of his, Yay, we are gonna beat this and high five me. He always was so possitive about that. What a brave, strong man little Paulywog became. Kelly

Catt White said...

Paul was a cheerful part of the Mercato team back in the beginning, always with a high five and a good word. Later, when things got tougher and his eyesight was so weak, he'd bring Ruby out to sit near the tree and move to the music on Saturday mornings, a smile on his face as he enjoyed the warmth of the sun and called out greetings to those of us whose voices he recognized. Still positive, still optimistic, still grateful for small pleasures, he inspired us all not to take the good things in life for granted and to find joy wherever it lands. See that shaft of sunlight? He's still smiling.
Catt White

Mary Barth said...

I saw Paul a few times as a child when I was over at the Zawadzki home visiting. His aunt Angie is one of my best friends. So I didn't know Paul personally but from the times when I would ask about him and Angie would tell me what was going on. However, many times, one can know someone by the stories that others tell. The nature of the person can be told by the friends who don't abandon him or the family who love him or the sense of humor and intelligence one hears running through the stories of him. I am so sorry for the loss he will be to his family but glad that his suffering is at an end. I send my sympathies to Laura and all the fammily and hope that lovely memories will comfort you at this time. Sincerely, Mary Barth

Unknown said...

I remember Paul coming home from football or another sport that he was playing, with all his friends, drinking a gallon of milk and all the food around. We joked about the amount of food he would consume! Always active, happy, healthy, smiling and handsome. I posted some pictures of Facebook of when he was little (I couldn't figure out how to do it here)... please view them! I love the one with John LiMandri and John LiMandri! I am sure Grandpa John was there to greet him, from his parents to his grandpa yesterday. Marco and Laura, you are so incredible and so amazingly strong. Paul was home with family when he passed, and weeks before. I know how he is happy, healthy, active and smiling again... and love to Crystal, John, Joe and Dominic, you all took care of Paul too for so many years. Love to you all, Aunt Dee Dee

Kathy Lattman said...

We had lost touch with Paul during his Junior High and High School years. We reconnected when he had his motorcycle accident. From that point on, we became family again. Paul and Chrystal came to visit us in Prescott Valley, AZ about 5 or 6 years ago. We took Paul quading on the trails behind our house. We will always remember what a fun day that was. It is so great to read the comments about what he was like in high school. We had the honor of spending as much time with him as possible these last couple of years. He fought his illness with such unbelievable strength. We will cherish the memories we have of his laughter and seeing that beautiful smile of his. To Laura, Marco, John, Joey and Dominic - we love you guys. Paul was so fortunate to have you all in his life. D.B. and Kathy

Annie said...

I have only interacted with Paul twice since moving to San Diego. We fist met a few years ago, at an early morning meeting I was having with Marco, on the corner of India and Date. He came bounding across the street and leaned down far enough for Marco to grab him around the neck and plant a big kiss on his cheek. "Annie, this is Pauly," Marco said, obviously glad to see him. "He's my son, and he's going home right now to walk the dog. Right, Pauly?" "Sure." Pauly answered as he broke free and headed off running down the street. Marco laughed, shook his head, and then shared the story of Paul's motorcycle accident. The only other time I saw Paul was after he had lost his eye sight. John brought him over to the LIA office one afternoon for a visit.It was very clear these brothers were also very good friends. Part of Paul's head had been shaved and he was self-conscious and concerned about his appearance. "You look like a rock star! Very cool, Paul." I said. He turned in my direction and his look of concern melted into a big, brash smile. "Who's that?" he called out. "It's Annie," John said. "Thanks, Annie." Paul shouted.I could tell he was pleased as he stroked his head and walked away with John guiding him along. The sight of these two devoted brothers touched my heart. I can't help but smile recalling that image.

Unknown said...

Cousin Paul--
I was lucky enough to get to know many members of my West Coast family during my years in California and you were one of them. I always enjoyed family get togethers and among the highlights were your grandparents 50th wedding anniversary on board the paddle wheel ship, Nick and Shirley's wedding, Jerome's 50th birthday party and several backyard cookouts. I'm glad I was able to meet you and share some time together. I am deeply sorry to learn of your passing and hope peace is now yours. May God bless your family.
Sincerely, your cousin on the East Coast, Laura Dellapenna

tom di zinno said...

This young man will surely be missed. Strong as an ox Paul demonstrated tremendous strength in suffering through this terrible debilitating disease. He made us all realize how his strength of character and courage can help us survive even the most terrible of circumstances. Rest in peace my friend.

Tom Di Zinno

Unknown said...

My sincere condolances to Marco and Laura and Family...its been a few years since i left little italy, however will always remember Paul, the help he gave when needed and seeing him always walking his dog at night around the neighborhood. I wish i could give you all a big hug right now! Thoughts and prayers always. Much love..Kara Galasso Garcia

Unknown said...

With Deepest Sympathy to the Family at this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Anonymous said...

I have so many memories of Paul that it is impossible to pick just one. I met Paul when he was in the second grade at Blessed Sacrament. I remember waiting for my brother Quentin after school on our first day, Paul walked up to him and shook his hand and said “hi I’m Paul. Do you want to come over my house?” From then on they were best friends and I saw Paul nearly every day until we became adults.
There was always something fun going on when Paul came over, through the years he was always doing something outdoors; rollerblading, skateboarding, building skateboard ramps, planning fishing trips, riding motorcycles… if it was fun, Paul and Quentin were on it. I remember we built a great canyon fort when we were younger and Paul discovered a neighbor’s blood orange tree that was always full of oranges. Paul loved the blood oranges, I remember him eating an armload of oranges and a big smile on his face.
I was always impressed by how strong Paul was. I remember picking on my younger brother and Paul was so fed up with me that he lifted me up off the ground and body slammed me! I was three years older was shocked at how strong he was! I stopped picking my brother at that point.
Paul had incredible strength through his motorcycle accident and cancer treatment. Quentin and I took him shooting in Jamul, and I pushed him around in his wheelchair at the beach after his accident, we were laughing, hanging out and having a great time talking about all the fun childhood memories.
I watched Paul grow up to be a strong educated young man. He was like a little brother to me.
I will miss you Paul.
Dominic Sandrik

Anonymous said...

I haven't much to say because Paul and I were only casual friends in high school. I left San Diego for college and never returned. The times I do remember were happy ones---usually at small parties or gatherings.

I wish I could have seen him once more to catch up and say goodbye.

My thoughts are with his family.

-Jordan

Anonymous said...

Paul and I went to high school together at Patrick Henry. My most fond memories of Paul were in the one and only Mr. Roth's auto shop class. I will always remember Paul's Blue Nova setting off car alarms every morning. Paul had a great sense of humor. When he found out that my friends and I loved the desert, auto shop, and trucks, with no hesitation he nicknamed us "The Brohams". He had the most amazing smile and could brighten up any room. Heather

John E Lincoln said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
John E Lincoln said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
John E Lincoln said...

I met Paul on the PH lacrosse team. He was a great player, and always put the hardest hits down. He was a natural longstick middie, and a blast to play with. The kind of guy you want on your team and not the other team. I remember thinking i was tough and trying to take him on a few times, i soon found out he was about twice as strong as i was i ended up on the ground. A lot of guys learned that lesson the hard way. Paul was a tough and strong man.

After college we reconnected briefly. It was the summer of 2006 and we moved into a place by San Diego State with another buddy. We ended up living together for about 4 or 5 months. That summer, Paul and I joked constantly that we had to live it like it was our last. Paul and I (and many of Paul's best friends as well) went out constantly, went to the beach, played over the line...

I always remember that summer fondly because Paul really lived it up. We joked for weeks that it was the, "Summer of 2006, we have to go big!"

I really can't say enough good things about Paul. I am sure many of your feel the same way. Great athlete, kind, honest, positive, strong, a good friend... Paul was beyond inspiring. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.