Just thinking of you last night. I miss you Paulie. ❤️ Jill

I first met my cousin, Paul, when I was in my early to mid 50s.  We lived on opposite sides of the country. 
At the time,  I was going through a particularly difficult period.  It was a few days before my birthday weekend, and I wasn't looking forward to spending it alone.  When I got home from work, I looked at the message machine and it was blinking.  I clicked on it and heard someone say, "Hey Jill, it's Paul!  Paul, your cousin...Aunt Ana's son! I'm here in Vegas and want to come out and visit yas this weekend.  Give me a call, even if it's late.  I'll be up."

Well, I thought it was a joke.  The only time I heard an accent that heavy was on the Sopranos!   I called out of curiosity , and to my surprise, we hit it off immediately.  It was as though we’d known one another forever. 

Paul showed up that Friday afternoon in a rented convertible, and it turned out to be the best birthday ever.  We went out dancing with some friends from work (the ladies were always surrounding him every time I looked to see where he was), The next day we went to the beach to visit my brother, and that Sunday we visited Hollywood with some friends.  Everyone loved him, but none more than me.

We kept in touch by phone over the years and family reunions.  He came to California a couple of times with his girlfriend, Roseanne.  Once, I met them at the beach and one time he and Roseanne spent Christmas with us.  It was more than wonderful.

Paul was so very kind to me -- the brother that I always dreamed of.  He was talkative around me, but I did notice he was a quiet guy around most other people.  I loved him, and I missed him.  I hoped against hope that I would be able to visit him before he passed but the pandemic prevented any travel. 

His daughters loved and cared for him til the end and would call me so I could speak with him.  I’m so grateful to them.  He was so special to so many, and loved by all.  

Til we meet again, I know you’re watching over us all. 

My memories of Paulie are mostly when we were both very young.
Shortly after he was born, Aunt Anne, Uncle Paul and Paulie moved in with my parents and me when I was just 4.  My brother was born about 9 mos later and they found a new apartment.  Nevertheless our families stayed close for many years. My brother John and Paulie were close friends from the time they were babies.  

My prayers and thoughts are with all of you that are  his family.  He was always easy to like and get along with.  I am sure he will be sorely missed.

Sincerely,
Rosemarie (his cousin)

May sweet memories and special moments bring you comfort as you mourn the passing of your dear father/grandfather, today and always. We pray that you will feel God’s love all around you and for Paul’s soul to be in heaven; suffering no more. God Bless.
With love and our sincere sympathy. 
The Manto family

It is hard to lose a loved one, especially a father. He had a tough battle in the end, but we pray that now he will rest in peace. We pray that his family finds peace as well.

I remember Paulie as the big brother who hung out with my big brother (John). He and Carol often double dated with John and Irene.  I remember his presence in the apartment on Valley Street in South Orange.  I can still see him sitting on the couch in the front room watching TV.  I also remember his long side burns in his teen years!

OBITUARY

Paul P. DeStefano

July 19, 1938 – January 28, 2021

Krowicki McCracken Funeral Home

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