The Godfather

Paul Edlund, FCSI (left) with Jim Robertson, FCSI at Paul's send-off party on February 26, 2014 (my photo)

The Willamette Valley Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute is one of the more decorated and active of the 140+ CSI chapters around the country. Numerous WVC members have held offices at the region and national levels as committee chairs, region directors, and Institute president. I’m not sure, but it would not surprise me at all if the Willamette Valley Chapter has a higher proportion of members who have been elevated to Institute fellowship than any other. We are blessed with an incredibly energetic, motivated, and collegial group of construction professionals. 

First and foremost among the Willamette Valley Chapter’s illustrious members has been Paul Edlund, FCSI, CCS, AIA. Paul was one of the charter members for the chapter at the time of its establishment in 1965. Since that time, he has truly served as the chapter’s sage and its heart and soul. There is no doubt he has influenced, taught, mentored, and befriended more WVC members than any other single person in the chapter’s long history. 

In addition to his immeasurable contributions at the chapter level, Paul has also played a significant role in helping CSI flourish at the region and national levels, having served on various institute technical committees, the national board, and more. 

Now 87 years young, Paul still maintains his specifications writing practice, serving numerous clients. Additionally, Paul continues to teach the CDT (Construction Documents Technologist) study course each year, as well as (up until this past fall) a similar curriculum for students at the University of Oregon’s Department of Architecture.(1)  

Paul and his wife Dencie are soon leaving Eugene and moving to Lake Oswego to be closer to their children. It is an enormous understatement to say that the Willamette Valley Chapter is going to miss Paul. Our loss is the Portland chapter’s gain. We know we’ll still get to occasionally see Paul during his visits to Eugene or when those of us trek north to the Portland area to see him there. Regardless, it was only fitting for the Willamette Valley Chapter to formally acknowledge his unparalleled advocacy and actions on behalf of CSI. Accordingly, the chapter presented Paul with a heartfelt plaque in recognition of all that he has meant to us. Here it is: 

The plaque presented to Paul Edlund in appreciation by the WillametteValley Chapter at its February 27, 2014 meeting. Thanks to Tom and Trixie Deines for writing the text and arranging the production of the plaque. Special thanks to the photographer, Loren Berry, who did a masterful job of capturing Paul being “large and in charge” at a CSI event.

The plaque reads as follows: 

"Paul Edlund, FCSI, CCS, AIA
Distinguished Member 

In deep appreciation for your boundless energy and tremendous vision, beginning in October 1965 as founding member of the Willamette Valley Chapter of CSI and continuing to this day with your selfless contributions through education, teaching certification, and continual involvement. You have offered your wisdom and kept our chapter on track, while maintaining high levels of quality and integrity, as only the “Godfather of our Chapter” could do. 

Our sincere thanks for 49 years of incredible service!

WVC Members
February 27, 2014" 

We wish Paul and Dencie all the best as they embark on the next chapter of their lives!

(1)  Paul has volunteered his time (along with Linn West) to teach these classes. Beginning next winter Larry Banks and I will attempt to fill Paul’s very large shoes to help Linn teach the CDT course.