Paul Stracuzzi

Of Binghamton, NY

The world is a little darker now. Paul (Pauly) David Stracuzzi left us on January 17, 2022. It wasn’t his time to go, at least not to those he left behind. Clearly the universe had other plans. Born, February 24, 1964, Pauly was the “baby” of the Stracuzzi clan, the seventh of seven.

Kind, honest, generous are words often used to describe Paul. He gave far more than he took, always tried to see the good in others—even if there wasn’t much good to see—and he’d stand up for anyone he thought was being wronged. He’d admit doing so wasn’t always the best decision but that’s just the way he rolled. He would rather act without hesitation then let someone else be hurt.

Aways self-deprecating, with a wicked sense of humor, Pauly could find a way to laugh at even the toughest situations. He had an innate optimism that at times defied explanation. Part a deflection of pain, part self-preservation, his resilience was truly extraordinary. No matter what life threw at him—and it threw a lot—he always found a way to laugh about it, not immediately but upon reflection. He found an opportunity for personal growth in his pain.

One of his most endearing qualities was that he loved without pretense, without a price tag and without asking for much in return. He shared that welcoming heart with his parents, siblings, and extended family. Over the last decade his family grew to include his many neighbors within his apartment community, who became an important part of his life.

By far, his greatest treasures were his daughter, Kathryn Bromley and his granddaughter, Carmela Javier. Being a father and later “grandad” brought him more joy and pride just about anything he had ever done.

His other loves were drumming—and he loved drumming— and his beloved cat, “Kandy Korn.” Sadly, “kitty” preceded Pauly in death in early December. If there’s a place in the afterlife where pets and their owners go, then that’s where you’ll find Paul and Kandy Korn, hanging out, watching TV together.

Paul was also predeceased by his parents, Joseph Stracuzzi (2006) and Joan Boyce Stracuzzi (2019), his paternal and maternal grandparents, as well as his many loving Aunts and Uncles.

Paul is survived by his daughter Kathryn Bromley and granddaughter, Carmela Javier of Binghamton; his brother Vincent Stracuzzi of Binghamton; his brother John and sister-in-law Teresa, of Little River SC; his sister Gina Stracuzzi and brother-in-law, Alan Hendricks of Richmond VA; his sister Francine Warren and brother-in-law, Mike Warren of Canastota NY; his brother Mark Stracuzzi of Grand Rapids MI; and his brother, Michael Stracuzzi and sister-in-law, Patricia Stracuzzi of Chesterfield MO.

There will be a celebration of his life as soon as COVID and the weather permit. In lieu of flowers, we think Paul would be honored, thrilled, even tickled if you did a random act of kindness for someone less unfortunate in his name or even your name. It’s the kindness that’s key. Pauly would love that.