WELLESLEY ISLAND, NY — Paul C. Coleman, Sr., 76, Peel Dock Road, Wellesley Island, NY, and formerly of Floyd, NY, passed away peacefully at his home Tuesday evening, Oct. 23, after a long-fought battle with cancer.
Born Nov. 8, 1941, in Rome, NY, the son of the late John T. and Lavinia Rostiser Coleman, he was a graduate of Holland Patent Central School, Class of 1961, and excelled in all sports. Back in the day of high school demonstrations he performed the task of doing what is called a “Double Cut Off” on the flying rings, blind folded, proving to be an excellent gymnast as well.
On Dec. 31, 1991, Paul married Barbara Dixon in Ogdensburg, NY.
Paul was employed by Marcy State Hospital, serving in the music department for 13 years. He went on as a self-taught musician entertaining locally for many years, eventually opening for Willie Nelson, Tanya Tucker, and many others. After a time he settled in Alexandria Bay and was employed by Bootlegger’s for 15 years until he opened his own bar, The Shipwreck, as well as Coleman’s Smokehouse.
Paul’s dream was to become a successful businessman in Alexandria Bay and become a restaurant proprietor. In 2006 his dream came true. Paul became the proud owner of Coleman’s Dock of the Bay, providing his own entertainment for many years until his vocal chords gave way and he was forced to retire form the entertainment portion of his business. Music was Paul’s passion and he missed it very much. He also loved the game of golf as well as creating various items on his menu for the restaurant.
Surviving besides his loving wife Barbara, are three sons and three daughters; Paul Coleman Jr., Rome, NY; Kimberly and Ed Berg, New Hartford, NY; Lynn and William Stieve , Batavia, Illinois; Jason Coleman and fiancé Lisa Trainer, Clarks Mills, NY; Jennifer Salerno of Mechanicville, NY; and Jonathon Coleman and Patsy Campany, Oneida, NY. He also leaves granddaughters, Taylor Stieve, Kelsey Ross, Lavinia Coleman, Breslin Coleman and Haven Coleman; and grandsons, Brandon Chase Lee, Nicholas Stockhauser, Matthew Stieve, Jeffery Salerno, Justin Salerno, Jaydon Salerno, and Jaxson Coleman; a sister, Carole Jenkins, Floyd, NY; and dedicated friends who cared for Paul unconditionally. He also leaves several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his brother John T. Coleman Jr.
Calling hours will be held 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 28, at Costello Funeral Home in Alexandria Bay. A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 29, at the Reformed Church of the 1000 Isles with Pastor Jeff McIlrath officiating.
Memorial donations may be made in Paul’s name to Hospice of Jefferson County.
Online condolences may be made at www.costellofuneralservice.com
