Paul John Hames

Passed away December 22, 2021 at the age of 71. Beloved husband of 47 years to his wife Connie; loving father of John, Ken, Sarah (Tim), and Emily; caring grandpa of Noah. He was preceded in death by his son John Michael, father Walter, mother Herdes, brother Paul, sisters Carol and Linda.

Paul’s first love was his family, his second was gardening. Paul enlisted in the Navy in 1968 and while stationed on the USS Ranger spent time in Japan. This was the birth of his love of the Japanese culture and gardening. His favorite book was the Sunset New Western Garden Book which he regularly used for guidance. He was happiest when he could show “newbies” around his garden. His garden always needed “one more tweak” and provided him much comfort and peace in his final days. The Navy also was the birth of Paul’s profession. He was a Photographer’s Mate and after completing his 4 year enlistment in the Navy, he attended the Rochester Institute of Technology where he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Photojournalism. This led Paul to two interesting jobs. He spent 16 years at Lawrence Berkeley Lab as a senior photographer. He photographed many innovative people and projects while there, but was most proud of the relationship he developed with Glenn Seaborg.

Paul also spent 20 years as a senior photographer at State of California Department of Water Resources. While there he photographed DWR directors, State and National officials, events, tours and scenic and aerial images up and down the state. His extensive comparison photos of drought conditions in California were featured in many worldwide publications and his aerial photo of the Delta was featured in National Geographic.

He will truly be missed by his family and friends. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, January 13th at 2:00pm at Hope Lutheran Church 55 San Fernando Way, Daly City, CA. In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity, food bank or the victims of the recent tornados.