In Memory of Paul E. Newman

Obituary

Mr. Paul E. Newman, age 75, of Utica, New York, died August 18, 2024, at Wynn Hospital as the result of injuries sustained during a senseless act of gun violence while he was standing on the porch of the house he lived in for over 40 years. Paul was born on May 1, 1949, to Gordon and Eleanor Newman in Utica. After graduating from Utica Free Academy, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and went on to serve two combat tours in Vietnam. In 1971, Paul met a young nursing student named Nancy Claven at the infamous Dinghy Bar. After being captivated by his mustache and flowing hair, they were married the next year in the thriving metropolis of Canajoharie. They went on to have their only child, Mark.

After working for too many years at Mele & Co in Utica, Paul decided that he was better suited for a life of leisure. After his “early retirement,” he could often be found tending his impressive mustache, sitting on his porch interacting with neighbors, making sure no one blocked his driveway, or feeding the neighborhood stray cats he insisted he did not like. Several of the strays that made the successful transition to pampered house cats would tend to disagree with the latter assessment. Paul’s hobbies included reading trashy Western and Spy Novels, wondering how many Super Bowls the Bills would lose, talking smack during Yankee’s games, annoying his ever-patient wife, and his son’s all-time favorite, turning the TV channel every 83 seconds.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents as well as his brother Gary. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Nancy, his amazing son Mark, four grandchildren, one great-grandchild, sister, niece, and two nephews.

The family would like to thank the paramedics who rapidly arrived on scene of the shooting, the staff at Wynn Hospital for their amazing care, and the Utica Police Department for their professionalism and continued support.

Per Paul’s wishes, there will be no calling hours, funeral service, or interment.

He will be missed by his family and friends.

Arrangements are with Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, Utica, NY.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.