Mr. Paul C. Kolb

NEW HARTFORD – Mr. Paul C. Kolb passed peacefully on Saturday, October 7, 2023, surrounded by his devoted wife and children who were of great comfort to him. Born on September 28, 1940, in Rochester, NY, he was the cherished son of the late Herbert and Arline (Kress) Kolb. He was raised and educated in Rochester prior to coming to Utica. Paul shared an unwavering bond with his beloved wife, the former Gayle Mandour, since their union on July 27, 1975. Their love was a beacon, demonstrating unwavering commitment and teaching their children the essence of dedication and love. Throughout his career, Paul's ambition and tenacity were hallmarks of his character. He embarked on his journey with Pepsi Cola as a driver. He later moved home and joined his father as a partner with L.K. Distributors, who supplied Genesee Beer. He then established the New Hartford Drive-Thru Beverage, as well as New Hartford Snacks, a local vending company. His son Jeffrey later became part of the vending company. His retirement in 2012 was a blessing and a testament to a career filled with dedication and passion. Paul's professional acumen, conversational skills, and well-versed product knowledge marked him as an outstanding figure in his field. Paul was a family man, which he displayed by being an involved and supportive dad. He never missed an opportunity to be their greatest cheerleader. When the grandchildren came along, he was known to them as “Poppa Paul.” This nickname was fused to him and many affectionately called him by this name. He now knew how to love as a grandpa, and family gatherings were even more dear to his heart. Paul’s interests were varied and rich. He had a love of golf, a good cigar, a stiff Scotch, an intense poker game, and was an unwavering Yankees fan through thick and thin. He enjoyed expressing his love and having the good fortune of many great friends and fabulous memories. Paul was respectful, yet strong-willed and was a force to be reckoned with when it came to his beliefs. He was an extraordinary supervisor, a wonderful entertainer, and an MC to all of the family events. He came to know the love of Italian and Lebanese cuisines. Saturday mornings were reserved for his time at Karam's Bakery, and Casabs for Sunday breakfast, because he loved the food and the company as well. Daniele's on Mohawk Street was their Friday night dinner spot. There were many wonderful dinner engagements that he and Gayle had with friends, which endured years of laughter and camaraderie. Life was good and he enjoyed and loved every opportunity. He was a Catholic and true believer, and he enjoyed hearing Mass led by Father Drobin of the Newman House, which was located at Utica University. He is survived by his committed wife, Gayle M.; and his children and their loves, Jeffrey P. and Melissa Kolb, Lindsey and Joseph Mandia, Robert and Lori Kolb, Paul Jon Kolb and Michelle Galstan; his adored grandchildren, Isabella, Vincent, and Adriana Kolb; Sophie, and Madelyn Mandia; as well as additional grandchildren. He also leaves behind his siblings, Norman Kolb (and his late wife Shirley), Beverly Lockwood (and her late husband, Peter), nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He also will be remembered by his in-laws Dr. Anthony and Carol Mandour, and a lifetime of wonderful friends. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Dr. Brahim Anthony and Marie Mandour, and cousin, Joseph Karam. Our heartfelt gratitude extends to Home Health Aide, Amanda, for her unwavering support and dedication to Paul's needs. The family will commemorate Paul’s life together as a family at a private time. Friends and relatives are warmly invited to Paul’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. An opportunity to greet the family will be available at the conclusion of the mass. Donations in memory of Paul can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or the New Hartford Volunteer Fire Department at www.nhfd.com; envelopes will also be available at the service. Paul is going to be laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Paul C. Kolb

September 28, 1940 - October 7, 2023