Paul John Furman, of New Rochelle, passed away peacefully at home on July 19, 2026, his 92nd birthday.

Paul was born on July 19, 1934, in Weymouth, Massachusetts, at the family home.

From the late 1930’s through 1950, Paul lived in West Newburyport, Massachusetts, at the House of the Angel Guardian (an orphanage fondly referred to by Paul and his brothers as the HAG). The Catholic Brothers of Charity managed the facility which blended strict religious discipline, academic schooling, and rural farm work as the foundation for shaping young men. This upbringing forged a path that stayed with Paul throughout his entire life.

After leaving Massachusetts, Paul moved to New Rochelle, where he remained a resident for the rest of his life.

Paul was a member of the U.S. Army stationed in Germany during the early 1950’s. During his service, he learned the electrical trade that became his lifelong profession. After his military service, Paul returned to New Rochelle to wed the love of his life, Patricia Columbo, at Blessed Sacrament Church. Together they built their home, raised their four boys, creating lasting memories.

Paul was a kind, generous, and loving man who cherished his family and friends. He was quick to help, regardless of the task, always putting the needs of others before his own. He freely gave of his time and resources throughout his life.

Paul’s unique sense of humor was never lost on his family and friends; there was always fun to be had, no matter the occasion. His “old timey phrases” were pulled from another era, now largely lost in the modern world. His unique, homemade gifts captured the essence of special moments, made with heart and love and always one of a kind.

His greatest joy, however, was being “Opa.” He delighted in spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing stories, laughter, and his love of the outdoors. His passion for skiing, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, biking, swimming, camping, fishing, traveling and gardening were just some of his “medicines for life”.

Tinkering and collecting were lifelong hobbies, with his basement and workshop serving as home to countless relics, tools, and projects, both finished and still in progress. “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure” was one of his many mottos.

Paul was known for his many red Jeeps and his unique hat and T-shirt collections, having collected at least one T-shirt for every day of the year. Baking his custom cakes, pies, and desserts for many holidays and celebrations was a skill he mastered later in his life. He loved playing chess, dominoes, and other games with family and friends and had a passion for theatrical productions. Dancing with Patricia on many occasions and at the Playland Pier always remained close to his heart.

Although he lived most of his life outside of Massachusetts, Paul never lost his New England roots. He treasured summer trips to Cape Cod with friends and loved visiting his family and grandchildren in the Boston area, always Boston Strong in his heart. A good lobster and clambake would hit the spot no matter where he was.

Paul was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help parish for many years and served as a Scout Leader in Pelham while raising his four boys. He was a stage crew member of the Blessed Sacrament Community Theater for many summer productions.

Paul was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and cherished friend to many. He will be dearly missed by all of those who knew, loved, and cared for him.

Paul is survived by his four sons, Robert M. (Margaret), Paul C. (Zoi), Scot E. (Donna) and David J. (Kathleen), his brother, Clarence James (Joan), and his stepsister Frances Sine, as well as, his grandchildren, Gus (Karen), Steve (Lanie)\, Michael (Kerri), Thomas (Sara), Zachary (Tara), Paul J. (Tiffany), Daniel, Nicole and Matthew, his great grandchildren, Olivia, Evan, Elena, Mariannina, Zoi, Aiden and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Paul was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; his brothers, Arthur and Robert; his father, Clarence Judson; his mother Helen M.; and his stepmother Frances.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Pelham Funeral Home on Friday, July 24, from 4 to 8 PM, with a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Family Church in New Rochelle on Saturday, July 25 at 9 AM. Interment will follow at Greenwood Union Cemetery in Rye.

Editor’s note: This obituary was provided by the Pelham Funeral Home.