Deputy Chief David T. Paul, U.F.D.

The city of Utica mourns the loss of a brave son, Deputy Chief David T. Paul, UFD, age 47, who passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 8, 2006, at his home in North Utica, with his devoted wife by his side. Born in Utica on February 15, 1959, David was the son of Raymond J. and Joan W. (Feketa) Paul. Raised and educated in Utica, he was a graduate of J.F.K. High School. He continued his education at M.V.C.C., and earned an associate’s degree in Mechanical Technology, which led to a job at Homogeneous Metals, Inc. On August 6, 1983, he married his childhood sweetheart, the former Leslie A. Scavo. They had an obvious love for one another in a cherished relationship of 30 years. They began their union as they were escorted to their wedding reception on an antique fire truck. In 1980, at age 20, David was appointed to the Utica Fire Department. His passion for firefighting was prodigious, as his fellow firefighters acknowledged his presence at many intense area blazes. He progressed through the ranks, attaining the position of lieutenant in 1987, Captain in 1990, and then the well-earned distinction of Deputy Fire Chief in 1993. Very knowledgeable and humble of nature, David was a dedicated leader, well-liked, respected, and quietly devoted to his cohorts. He possessed all the hallmarks of his vocation: service, bravery, safety, honor, and dedication. He was true to the motto of the Utica Fire Department – with no fear he always went “Above and Beyond the Call”. As a supportive father, his intentions were to offer his guidance and wisdom to his children and to encourage them to be the best people they could be. He was involved with their education and provided for their well-being. A truly benevolent person, his approach to life can serve as an example to us because he realized his responsibilities as a husband, father, family man, fellow firefighter, and citizen of the world. David lived each day to the fullest, and had an inherent understanding of life. As his sister Susan affirmed, ‘he did things his way’. He was an avid and skilled outdoorsman, an Eagle Scout, proficient in hunting, archery, fishing, and snowmobiling. Among his talents, he was mechanically inclined and assisted his many friends and co-workers with his dexterous ability to repair any apparatus or device. A highlight of his leisure time was a great vacation trip to Las Vegas several years ago with his wife and friends, Tracy and Andy Esposito. He traveled annually to Myrtle Beach with his family and his friends, an anticipated vacation he truly enjoyed. Deputy Chief Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Leslie; his daughter, Michelle C. Paul, a student at the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising College in Manhattan; and his son, Brian M. Paul, a student at M.V.C.C. Also surviving are his parents, Ray and Joan Paul; his sister, Dr. Susan Horling of Westland, MI; his nephew, Jake Horling, several aunts, and uncles, especially mentioning Robert Sr. and Jean Manfredo; his cousins including, Robert and Donna Manfredo, Jr., and Francis and Gail Manfredo. His extended family includes his mother-in-law, Theresa Scavo, his in-laws, Natalie Massita, (and her loving pet animals), Bruce Scavo; and his nephew, Michael Scavo. David loved his dogs: he first had the companionship of “Tessie”, who passed away, and currently loved “Bella”. He was predeceased by his father-in-law, Bruno Scavo. David valued the many wonderful times spent with his dear friends Vinny, Mark, Ziggy, and Vito. The family offers its profound thanks to the Utica Emergency Medical Technicians who responded, the Utica Fire Department Physician, David’s parents, neighbors Gladys “Cookie” and Albert Newton and family, and Chief Russ and Maryann Brooks, all of whom responded to their home with great support. A true thank you is offered to the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Emergency Room Staff, Father Joseph Salerno, who was so consoling, and David’s fellow firefighters, who came to offer condolences. Visitation will be held Monday from 3-8 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions in David’s honor to the Utica Fire Department for the purchase of life-saving equipment; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend David’s Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated at 11:30 Tuesday morning at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish at Mt. Carmel Church. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Deputy Chief David T. Paul, U.F.D.

February 15, 1959 - September 8, 2006