Paul Leonard Pioli

Paul passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, in Seattle, at the age of 84. He was born on November 15, 1941, in Seattle, Washington, the son of Peter Pioli and Anita Angeli. Paul married Sharon Kealy and together they enjoyed 56 years of marriage until her passing in 2023. Their marriage was the anchor of a life filled with family, community, and service.

Paul proudly served in the United States Army, including time stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War, and later continued to serve through the Washington State National Guard. Paul worked over 40 years for King County Metro — first as a bus driver and later in the Revenue Processing Center — earning the respect and friendship of colleagues and riders alike.

Paul and Sharon also ran Pioli’s Catering for several years, bringing good food and joyful celebration to weddings and special events throughout the community. Paul could often be seen in the kitchen at many parish and school spaghetti dinners.

Paul was a beloved mentor and coach. He influenced thousands of young people through sports, coaching Ballard Jr. Football, North Central Little League, and teams at O’Dea, Blanchet and Rainier Beach High Schools. Paul also spent many years as an umpire for baseball and referee for wrestling. His leadership and humor left a lasting mark on generations of athletes.

Deeply proud of his heritage, Paul was an active member of Seattle’s Italian community and held several leadership roles within the Sons of Italy. His presence, energy, and generosity enriched every gathering.

Paul is survived by his children Joseph, James, Anita, and John Pioli; grandchildren Anthony Pioli, Nicholas LoPriorie, Jack LoPriorie, Carina Pioli and Maddalena Pioli; and his great-grandchild Sola LoPriorie.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Please join us anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. at Butterworth’s Funeral Home (520 W Raye St, Seattle), followed by Internment of Ashes at Holyrood Cemetery (205 NE 205th St, Shoreline) at 1:30pm. Carpooling is encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in Paul’s name at www.T2T.org.

All are welcome to sign the online guestbook below and add any messages or stories for the family.