Paula Jean Yazzolino

Paula Yazzolino, 82, of Portland, Oregon, passed on November 30, due to complications from cancer. She was the daughter of Stanley John and Martha Dagmar (Rasmussen) Sweynor. Paula was born on Easter Sunday April 17, 1938, in San Francisco, CA, but moved to Portland as a baby and attended Irvington Grade School, Grant High School for three years and graduated from Beaverton High School. She attended California College of Arts and Crafts, where she majored in Graphic Arts.

Paula worked as a graphic artist at Tektronix, Quik Print, and R2 Graphics. She enjoyed her work and her hobbies of sewing clothing for herself and her daughter, knitting sweaters for the family, reading, going to movies, and playing the piano which she learned to play when she was in her 60’s. Paula and family skied for many years together and she played tennis until she had an injury to her knee. Walking and an exercise regimen helped her age gracefully. Paula was renowned as a gourmet chef and she welcomed any and all to the dinner table. She was happiest when entertaining.

As a long-time member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church, she had many hats to wear over the decades. Paula was President of the ALCW women’s group, taught Sunday School, was an event planner, entertained visiting speakers, belonged to small groups, helped distribute food to those in need, served communion, attended bible studies, baked cookies for memorials, and substituted as receptionist. Being of service in the Lord’s work made her happy.

Friends were so important to Paula, whether spending an hour or a long time together, she appreciated everyone. Pete and Paula were co-founding members of a wine group formed over 40 years ago. The group is still going strong and Paula enjoyed the monthly events and traveling with members to other countries sampling food and wine.

Pete and Paula were married on March 13, 1965, and have celebrated 56 years together. Family time was most important to her and she loved being a parent and grandparent. Paula is survived by her husband Peter Yazzolino (Portland), children Anthony Yazzolino and his wife Gina (Portland), Jennifer Snyder and her husband Andrew (Montclair, NJ) and five grandchildren Sofia Yazzolino, Angela Yazzolino, Gianna Yazzolino, Amelia Snyder and Owen Snyder.

In lieu of flowers, Paula would like contributions to be made to

Make A Wish of Oregon Foundation or St. Matthew Lutheran’s Special Church Action Team