Paul Rajniak

Paul Andrew Rajniak

April 15, 1947 ~ November 3, 2021

Paul Andrew Rajniak passed away Wednesday, November 3, 2021, at the age of 74 surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing life challenges with a smile. Despite the pain, Paul came out a hero and stayed strong until the end.

Paul was born in Akron, Ohio to parents Andrew and Helen (Somody) Rajniak on April 15, 1947. He received two Bachelor’s Degrees, the first from University of Akron, in Akron, Ohio. The second from Weber State University in Ogden, Utah. Paul served as a pilot in the United States Air Force attaining the rank of Captain.

Upon honorable discharge, he started a career as an air traffic controller and was a proud member of the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO). Paul then became a police officer for the Ogden City Police Department. He later served in the Utah Air National Guard where he was promoted to Major. In 2012, he retired after 20 years working for the Department of Defense as an IT director with highest clearance credentials.

In the following years he lived his best life playing golf with friends, visiting friends around the country, and watching his daughter enjoy her love and passion for horses.

He then met the love of his life, together they spent time traveling, watching football, going to the New Orleans Rock N Bowl, and enjoying each other’s company.

Paul is survived by his daughter Andrea (Jeremy) Rajniak Willden of Layton, Utah; the love of his life, Valerie Willard of Hooper, Utah; sister, Marilyn (Clayton) Goldsmith of Sarasota, Florida; ex-wife, Dee Thorell; nieces Carol (Steve) Groves of Stowe, Ohio and Debbie Goldsmith-Toth of Tallmadge, Ohio; along with great nieces, nephews, cousins, and very many friends who he loved and cared for very deeply.

He is preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Helen Rajniak, his grandmothers and grandfathers Rajniak and Somody. Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Friends, and many others he has reunited with and is playing endless rounds of golf.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, November 8, 2021 at Lindquist’s Roy Mortuary, 3333 West 5600 South. The family will meet with friends Sunday, November 7th from 6 to 8 p.m. and Monday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the mortuary. Masks are optional, not required.

Funeral services will be live-streamed by scrolling to the bottom of Paul’s obituary page at www.lindquistmortuary.com or you can contact Lindquist’s receptionist for help and guidance for the live stream.

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