Friend Is Gone but Won’t Be Forgotten

I want to thank Mike Bresnahan for writing the story on the life of Paul Sutton. I first met Paul when he coached at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in North Hollywood. My mother and he began dating when I was in fourth grade. Although he went on to marry his wonderful wife Dana, I was always treated like a member of their family.

Your story is a wonderful tribute to a wonderful person. The stories you told about Ernie Godinez and Andrew Bencze are just two of the infinite ways Paul touched the lives of the many students and people he came into contact. He was there for anyone who ever needed to talk. I have countless personal stories and lessons that center around Paul. He was the one who got me involved in sports, took me to my first UCLA football game, and was there when I played my best basketball game in high school. Even when I finished dead last (and crying) at a track meet, he was there at the finish line with open arms telling me to just finish the race.

The world has lost a true mentor and friend. But as long as there are family, friends and students who hold on to Paul’s values and lessons, he will always be here among us.

Thank you for showing those who never knew him how important and respected a person he really was.

LISA NAKATA

Los Angeles