Paul E. Howard, 87, Canton

CANTON -- Paul E. Howard, 87, of Canton died on Sunday, May 5, 2024, in the comfort of his home where he was with family and under the care of Hospice of the St. Lawrence Valley.

Paul was born July 6, 1936, in Canton, New York to the late Eldon and Florence (Pearl) Howard.

He graduated from Canton High School and enlisted in the US. Navy. On September 12, 1964, Paul was united by marriage to Maureen Smith.

Following a dedicated 20 years of active duty, Paul retired from the US Navy as a First Class Petty officer and relocated to northern New York to raise his family in his home town. He was a dispatcher for the Potsdam Police Department for 20 years.

Paul was a communicant of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He loved volunteering at the former St. Mary’s School, assisting in the school cafeteria where he was known to give extra desserts. He also assisted at St. Mary's holiday meals and bereavement lunches. Paul was a member of VFW and Elks.

He enjoyed music, gardening, woodworking, refinishing furniture, and Christmas. He was an avid Red Sox, New England Patriots and NASCAR fan. He loved to vacation in Cape Cod with his family and any visit with his grandchildren.

Contributions in his memory may be made to St. Mary’s Cemetery for maintenance and upkeep, c/o St. Mary’s Church, 68 Court Street, Canton, New York 13617 or Hospice of the St. Lawrence Valley.

Paul is survived by his three children, Paul E. II (Phyllis) Howard; Kelly M. (Bryan) Merrill and Erin M. (Russ) Backus; grandchildren, Erik and Megan Howard, Bryan II & Sean Merrill and Rory Backus. Also surviving is a brother-in-law, Frederick Smith, a sister-in-law, Barbara Smith and several nieces, nephews and cousins

Paul's beloved wife of 56 years, Maureen, predeceased him on March 24, 2021. In addition to his wife and parents his siblings, Arloeen Potocnak, Harold Howard, Catherine Howard, Mary Howard, Virginia Dewan, Anne Foley, and Pauline Howard predeceased him.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, May 12, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at O’Leary Funeral Home in Canton.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, May 13. 2024, at 10:00 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Canton with Father Bryan Stitt, Pastor, celebrating.

Memories and condolences are encouraged online at www.olearyfuneralservice.com.

Arrangements for Mr. Paul E. Howard are under the care of the O’Leary Funeral Service of Canton.