Dr. Paul Byron Hale

Dr. Paul Byron Hale, PhD, died on Friday, November 27, 2020. He was 100 years old.

Born in Bunker Hill, Illinois in 1920 as the eldest of three sons, Paul’s dedication to education and love of music were lifelong. After graduating at the top of his high school class, he hoped to pursue music. However, WWII ensnared the future Dr. Hale and he enlisted in the Army. Upon completion of his tour of duty he found a bright shining star, his future wife Ethel.

Following their marriage, Paul and Ethel moved to Illinois where Paul returned to school and they began raising their three children, David, Lynn and Robert. During the Cold War he developed and administered an educator exchange program between West Germany and the University of Illinois. For decades after these exchanges Paul maintained frequent contact, hosted, and visited participants even after his retirement.

Upon completion of his Doctor of Education Degree, Paul and his family relocated to San Bruno, California. At San Francisco State University, as a faculty member of the Education Department, he assisted in the training of thousands of teachers. Continuing his love of music Paul established a SFSU faculty barbershop quartet of somewhat dubious skill, but copious enthusiasm.

Dr. Hale and his wife loved to travel and embarked on a decades long world tour of five continents and dozens of countries. As Paul’s life entered its coda, he continued a vibrant life enjoying time with family and piles of audiobooks and records.

Paul Hale is survived by his wife of 74 years, three children, four grandchildren, and four greatgrandchildren. No service is planned. Messages may be emailed to the family at DrPaulHale@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation be made to San Francisco State University in memory of Dr. Paul B. Hale.