Paul J. Magdziak

IRONWOOD, Mich. - Paul J. Magdziak, 84, a longtime resident of Ironwood, passed away Friday, Jan. 7, 2022, with his family by his side.

Feb. 15, 1937 - Jan. 7, 2022. These are two dates that will live with us forever; however, it is not the dates that are most important. It is the dash representing the time he spent with us. It is the life between the dates that carry us through this difficult time. It is all the wonderful times we shared creating memories traveling, camping and in everyday life.

To his wife, Joanne, he was Pauly. He was, and always will be, the love of her life. To his children, he was Dad. Someone they loved and laughed with, and could always rely on. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was Papa. He sat on the sidelines of all their activities, watching and cheering. They were his greatest pride and he was one of their biggest fans. Let's not forget the fur babies, "My puppies" as he would call them. They, too, knew him as Papa and rivaled for his lap and attention. To some friends he was Pauly, to others, he was Paul. On a personal level, he was quiet, but always caring. He loved to tease and joke. He will be remembered by all for his kind heart, loving and sensitive nature, wild stories of the past, and playful teasing.

Paul worked in the iron ore and copper mining industry for much of his life. He spent most of that time with the White Pine Copper Company in White Pine, where he operated a tram, and was chief steward for his union in his unit. He retired early at 54 years of age after a mining accident.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Joanne Magdziak; two children, Scott Magdziak and Paula (Dave) Martinson; four grandchildren, Adam Magdziak, Alisha Salli (Kevin Riddell), Trevor Beaudette and Mariah (Jamin) Partanen; two great-grandchildren, Addison and Charlotte; a sister, Janet (Delbert) Vaughn; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Marion Magdziak and Francelle Adamavich; and two brothers, Wallace "Wally" Magdziak and Michael "Mike/Mickey" Magdziak.

Pauly, Dad, Papa, Paul ... Thank you for the dash - the life you shared, the memories you helped create, and the joy you brought. You have given us a lot to hold on to and treasure. We love you. You are greatly missed, but are forever in our hearts.

Out of respect for Paul's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no service.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, has been assisting the family with the arrangements.