Paul was both a founding member and inspirational teacher for the Sunset Bonsai Club. In the early 1970’s, Paul’s exposure to bonsai first occurred courtesy of his brother Ray. While brother Ray was an avid hobbyist, Paul became such an enthusiast, he started his Windsong Bonsai business in the late 70’s.

Though Paul never diminished the artistic side of the art, he was fascinated with the horticultural dimensions of bonsai. He enjoyed experimenting with different plant species, soil concoctions, fertilizers, wiring methods, etc. Not every endeavor was a success and Paul humorously shared these not so positive lessons that he gleaned from his experimental methods.

In the late 1980’s, Paul moved to Beaverton where he became active in the local bonsai scene. While he studied advanced bonsai techniques from regional masters, Paul also taught classes and sold bonsai. Throughout this period, Paul shared his easy going expertise and deprecating sense of humor to teach and encourage novices to take up bonsai. Paul reasoned that learning bonsai should be more fun and less serious. It was just a matter of time before Paul met like-minded people and help set up the Sunset Bonsai Club.

Paul Rathjen died in 2007. In your passing Paul, we miss you as a superb teacher, but more importantly, we miss you as a valued friend.