Paul P. Wambach

May 12, 1946 - October 3, 2024

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Paul Wambach, who succumbed to complications of COVID, at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, on October 3, 2024. Paul was surrounded by the love and comfort of his family, who kept vigil in his final moments and throughout the 6 weeks he was hospitalized.

Paul was a lifelong resident of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, born to Peter and Margherita (Zarbo) Wambach on Mother’s Day, May 12, 1946. He was touted as a delightful child, and was a true middle child, the 7th born in a family of 14 children. He cherished his BIG Italian family. Paul was a trusted confidant to many of his siblings. He had a gift for listening, gave sound advice, and valued silence as a powerful response. Paul bridged the space between many family members, and their goals. He donated to fund mission trips, he purchased artwork to support turning a hobby into a career, and aided many in crossing the college finish line. He reveled in being an identical twin, remarking how lucky he was to be “born with an instant best friend.” He was most proud to be a grandfather, fondly being called “Popaul.” To the surprise of his daughters, he bent every rule he made as a father for his grandsons. They were never made to eat peas. He cheered them on doing anything, and made zero apologies for being the loudest on the sidelines at their sporting events.

Paul attended St. Margaret Mary Elementary School, Bishop McDevitt High School, Harrisburg Area Community College and The Grantham School of Electronics. He was an English teacher at St. Margaret Mary Elementary School, and a Regional Sales Representative for the Gay Gibson Corporation. Paul pursued his love for civic service, holding positions in both state and local government. He was an appointed member of Harrisburg City Council. He was elected Harrisburg City Treasurer, and served from 1992 to 2012. He was Director of the Allegheny County Delegation, Executive Director of the North West Democratic Caucus, and a Legislative Liaison for the Department of General Services. He retired in 2011 as the Executive Assistant to the Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. While retired, upon hearing the City of Harrisburg was in need of an interim treasurer, Paul returned to his former position, and waived his salary. In a press conference he said of the city “I love this place. This place has to know they’re protected. This place will know that they’re protected.” He was dedicated to preserving the autonomy of local government, and exchanged ideas through his work with the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities. He was the proud Vice President of his HOA, and a leader in his local community, serving on the board of Schaffner Detention Center, Susquehanna Township Sewer Authority, and various local non-profit organizations.

He was a devout member of St. Catherine Laboure Church, and former member of St. Ann’s Byzantine Catholic Church, where he proudly taught catechism. His introduction of the Byzantine antiphon “God Grant You Many Years” began a family tradition of singing it at celebrations.

Paul was a warm man, a faithful friend and protector, who loved his family as friends, and friends as family. He preferred a hug over a handshake to greet you. He was a master of the “$10 handshake” to strangers on the street. He gladly contributed to any cause he deemed worthy, whether donating to political campaigns, sponsoring third-world children, or supporting his Church. What was his, was yours. Paul once literally took the coat off his back to give it to a man in need.

Paul’s passion for music was spiritual, remarking that it “moved his soul.” He played the French horn in the school band, could toss Carol around the dancefloor in a spirited jitterbug, and could Von Trapp-style harmonize with his siblings, to The Beatles, Broadway show tunes, and church hymns.

Paul treasured his class of 1964 at Bishop McDevitt High School. He rarely missed a home football game as an alumnus, and boasted that he bled blue and gold. It was there that he was introduced to Carol, who became his high school sweetheart. She was a constant presence in Paul’s life, as they were kindred souls in both friendship and love. Carol was the love of his life, and he proved it, by marrying her twice!

Paul was drawn like a magnet to a good auction. As a social butterfly he preferred attending in person, but he’d also chase the thrill of victory online on Ebay. He collected antique postcards, political memorabilia, and anything that piqued his interest. He delighted in teaching newcomers the ropes, and would strike up a conversation within a murmured earshot of “what is this thing?”

Paul enjoyed summers with his family in Brigantine, NJ, and carried with him a lifetime love of the ocean. He could crack a crab blindfolded, and responsibly tossed back the female crabs, so they could reproduce.

Paul had a mechanical mind and craved to understand how everything worked, in particular computers, clocks, and cars. He had a knack for all things electrical and plumbing. He was everyone’s handyman, keeping a “go bag” of tools in the hallway closet. He would refuse money as payment, but never turned down a HOT cup of black coffee.

Paul is survived by his wife, Carol (Pagano) Wambach, his daughters, Kristin Wambach and Kara Wambach McClain, son-in-law Kelly McClain, grandsons Hayden, Maxwell, and Elliott, and his puppy, “Isley.” Paul was predeceased by his parents, and sisters Patricia Hill, Rita Carol and Mary Theresa. He is also survived by siblings, Cecelia (Bobbi Ausubel), Joseph (Maryse), Vincent (Sharon), Peter, Edward (Leta), Stephen, Christopher, Margaret Ludwig (Paul), Marion MacDonald, Marie Greenawalt (Robert), brother in law Michael Hill, and many nieces and nephews. We have no doubt his beloved “Shep”, will lead the pack of “Pepper”, “Meatball”, “Rudy” and “Coco” to bowl over Saint Peter at the pearly gates to get to Paul.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at Saint Catherine Laboure Church, 4000 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA from 9 to 11 am, followed by a Celebration of Life Mass at 11 am. Burial will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery, 4075 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA immediately following the service. For your protection and ours, face masks are required and will be provided for attendees.

In lieu of flowers, kindly donate to St. Catherine Laboure Church. Help us honor Paul’s legacy by doing a good deed, reconnecting with a friend, or helping a neighbor. Embrace every opportunity to say “I love you”, and participate in EVERY election by casting your vote.

Paul, we reach out to you through this vale of tears. We cannot imagine our lives without you. May you rest in peace, may your memory be a blessing, and may those whose lives you’ve graced, be inspired to mirror your compassionate soul.