CHAUMONT, NY — Paul A. Della Pepa, 60, of Bay View Manor, Chaumont, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at his home on September 19, 2020 of natural causes.Â
Born July 22, 1960, in Newburgh, NY, son of Terrance and Marjorie (Owens) Della Pepa, he attended Sackets Harbor High School and graduated from the Jefferson- Lewis BOCES vocational training program in automotive technology, earning his GED.
Following school, Paul went to U.S. Air Force basic training and, upon completion, married Deborah Pieczarka, of Hounsfield, on April 22, 1980. Paul continued on to serve in the U.S. Air Force, where he received training as an jet engine mechanic.
Upon returning home, he and his wife resided in Dexter, then later LaFargeville, where he began a lifelong career as an automotive technician in the Watertown area. Over the years he received training to become a ASE Certified Master Technician. During these years he also enjoyed volunteering at the Can-Am Speedway with various pit crews.
He was also known to help individuals on the side of the road experiencing car trouble for free and guiding them to reputable repair shops as well.
In recent years, he called Bay View Manor his home, and was well-known by all the residents there, and was always cooking delicious Italian meals to share, lending a helping hand or ear, and was always on alert to make a cake for someone’s birthday.
He was a master story teller and his grandchildren were among those who always loved to listen to his stories, and always appreciated their time with Grandpa.
Among his survivors are his son, Paul A. Della Pepa Jr. of Sackets Harbor, and Paul’s daughter and her spouse, Jessica Della Pepa-Clayton and Jesse Clayton, of Plainfield, VT; and two grandchildren, Alexander and Ariabella.
Besides his parents, his wife Deborah passed away before him on March 20, 2011.
It was Paul’s wish to be cremated. Calling hours will be held 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, at the Hart & Bruce Funeral Home.
Donations may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital in Paul’s name.
Online condolences may be made at www.hartandbrucefh.com.