Prominent and beloved Honolulu attorney Paul Mullin Ganley left us to begin his next adventure on January 12, 2023 at the age of 84, following a major stroke.Paul Ganley was well known for his distinguished legal career during which he served as a Trustee for The Estate of Samuel Mills for several decades from the early 1980s until the recent close of the Trust. He was a long-time Director on the Board of Directors at First Hawaiian Bank, as well as on the Board of Directors of BankWest Corporation and the French-based BNP Paribas, formerly associated with First Hawaiian Bank.
Paul Ganley was born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania in 1938 to James Ganley and Virginia Reddington Ganley. He moved to Honolulu as a toddler during World War II, when his father served at Hickam Air Base and later became chief of the military police there. Paul grew up in Aina Haina on Oahu and attended Mary Star of the Sea Elementary until middle school, when he transferred to Punahou School. Paul was active in a variety of sports. He ran track, played basketball, and was a star halfback on the varsity football team. He graduated from Punahou in the class of 1957 and went on to college at the University of Oregon. Paul received his J.D. from San Diego School of Law where he was a member of Law Review. After law school Paul returned to Honolulu to work as a trial lawyer for Chun, Kerr and Dodd and later served for many years as Partner, then Of Counsel for Carlsmith Ball law firm. He was listed in "Best Lawyers in America" and taught a business-related course at the University of Hawaii. He is the author of many professional articles.
Throughout his career and personal life, Paul Ganley took pride in mentoring those in need. Early in his law career he became well known for his efforts as a guardian ad litem for disadvantaged youth. At that time he also developed novel pro bono educational experiences for local youth to learn about the court system in a fun environment. In the mid-1970s, for example, he initiated mock trials for elementary school children, who served as young "jurors" in deciding whether he or their teacher was the best at replicating the most believable barnyard and zoo animal sounds (such as "cockadoodle-doing", roaring, etc.) He even received awards for statewide storytelling competitions. In addition, Paul Ganley worked closely as long-time legal counsel for the Salvation Army and their local outreach. He was often referred to as "God's Attorney" by the Salvation Army.
In addition to his accomplished legal career, Paul Ganley was an exceptional community servant through a diverse array of activities: the Rotary Club, Hawaii Mental Health Center, The Civilian Advisory Group, The 200 Club, Board Member of the Hawaii Theatre Center, and The Outrigger Canoe Club. He also collaborated with Senator Ted Kennedy and other Senators in revising Federal Penal Code provisions dealing with admissibility of testimony by psychologists and psychiatrists.
Paul died surrounded by love in his Hawaii Kai home with his wife, family, and friends by his side. All who knew him will remember Paul as a man of honor, for his exuberant joy of life, and his immense generosity. Everyone appreciated his colorful stories, fun-loving Irish gift of gab and above all his welcoming open arms for all whom he touched. His pranks and character impersonations are legendary and everyone has a unique "Paul" story to share. Not only was Paul a respected attorney but he possessed remarkable creativity. Many commented that he was an architect at heart. His artistic eye was in evidence throughout his homes. His antique clock collection contained treasures from his travels. Paul also wrote beautiful poetry about life as seen through his perceptive eyes.
Paul spent many happy years with his wife at their Maleakahana beach house where he enjoyed his love of the ocean. He was an avid traveler and had many friends all over the world. We know he is telling his stories to the new friends he is meeting now and to his loved ones who passed away.
Paul is survived by his soulmate and wife Nancy, his two daughters Shawna Ganley and DeLacy Ganley, sister Patricia Baldwin, thirteen nieces and nephews, and four grandchildren. A private family service will be held. Donations in his honor may be sent to the Salvation Army Family Treatment Program. Please make checks payable to Salvation Army FTS in memory of Paul Ganley. Address: Salvation Army FTS, P.O. Box 5085, Hilo, HI 96720.
