Paul Robert Vitello

Paul Vitello entered eternal life on March 19, 2024 in Salem, Oregon at the age of 92 after being diagnosed with congestive heart failure three years ago. He leaves behind Susan, his wife of 29 years, daughters Christi Leigh Hess (Mark), Susan Fielding (Ryan), and son Michael Vitello (Heather), in addition to sisters-in-law Nancy Vitello, Linda Faughnan (Owen D.), and Ellen Marin. Also survived by grandchildren Rocco and Ruby. He will be deeply missed by his nieces and nephews, and was preceded in death by his brother Ron Vitello.

Born to Mamie (Accurso) and Jacob Vitello in Cincinnati, Ohio on July 28, 1931, Paul's early years were spent in the Fairmount Italian neighborhood on the westside of town. Lifelong friendships were made during his formative years at St. Bonnie's and Hughes High School.

Paul spent two years in the army, stationed in El Paso, Texas. Upon discharge from the army, he finished his schooling at the University of Cincinnati and graduated with a degree in business administration. In 1959, Paul started working for Joseph E. Seagram & Sons at the Lawrenceburg plant. He spent time in Engineering and Bottling at the Lawrenceburg plant, and accepted transfer in 1987 to the Cooler Department in New York as Production Coordinator. There he met his wife Susan and, after retiring, they moved out west following their dreams, spending time in both Oregon and Washington State before moving to Louisville, Kentucky to be close to their grandchildren. Ultimately, their shared love of the Pacific Northwest brought them back to Salem, Oregon in 2020.

Paul was fearless and never took the easy way out. He embraced boating on the Hudson, and hosted poker games where there was always skyline chili and cigars on hand. He enjoyed Broadway musicals and was happy just people watching on the streets of Manhattan. He loved straight ahead jazz and never missed a chance to see his cousin Mickey (Mike Longo) perform. Paul was very proud of his Italian heritage and loved getting together with his large extended family.

His interests ranged from Civil War history to perfecting his scientific system for betting on horse races. Skiing and bowling were pursuits, and he was always on the lookout for the best whiskey and bourbon to take to campouts.

Paul had great respect and love for all living creatures, especially for cats Missy and Lucky. He was passionate about the conservation of the many streams and rivers he flyfished over the years. He gave freely of his time, talent and treasure to Trout Unlimited Chapters in Kentucky and Oregon, whether it was planting trees, organizing banquets, teaching men living with cancer how to flyfish, or helping with the youth fishing camp.

Charming, funny, stubborn, goofy, big-hearted - these are some of the things that come to mind when describing Paul. All who knew him were fortunate to count him as a friend. He will be missed more than words can say. A special thank you to the VA medical profession, in both Portland and Louisville, who gave such good care to him.

Visitation will be from 3 - 7 p.m. on Monday, April 8, 2024 at Virgil T. Golden Funeral Home, 605 Commercial St. SE, Salem, OR. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 4227 Lone Oak Road SE, Salem, OR at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, followed by interment at Willamette National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, The Paul Vitello Scholarship for the Youth Conservation and Flyfishing Camp has been established in his memory. Donations may be mailed to Trout Unlimited Clackamas River Chapter, 405 High Street, Gladstone, OR 97027