I first met my father-in-law when he and his wife attended our marriage ceremony at Letchworth State Park. Kathie and I live in Canada, and over the years have attended family events in Cuba and area, and visited on other occasions, when we could. I recall at one family event, Paul stood and shared with the family how the company he had founded had pioneered waste collection and management in rural upstate New York. He spoke with pride and conviction, capturing in a few words, as was his wont, a successful business life that spanned decades. He also loved history, and I recall him telling me about the history of Cuba Lake and, on another occasion, the crew makeup and duties of those who operated the local oil pumpjacks. Understated and soft-spoken, he had a beautiful way of saying simply in a few words what others would struggle to express with many. He always spoke from his heart, and with compassion and understanding. I will miss him deeply. In this time of grief and remembrance, it is his kindness and gentleness that I recall most.

“In the rising of the sun and in its going down, I will remember you. In the blowing of the wind and in the chill of winter, I will remember you. In the opening of buds and in the rebirth of spring, I will remember you. In the blueness of the sky and in the warmth of summer, I will remember you. In the rustling of leaves and in the beauty of autumn, I will remember you. In the beginning of the year and when it ends, I will remember you. When I am weary and in need of strength, I will remember you. When I am lost and sick at heart, I will remember you. When I have joys I yearn to share, I will remember you. As long as I live, and wherever I may go, you will be a part of me, because I will remember you,” Rav Shimshon Pincus, A Reform Jewish Prayer Book.