Korean War Paratrooper Paul R. Beardsley, 81, Formerly of Danbury, Passed Away

DANBURY, CT — Paul R. Beardsley, 81, of Inverness, FL., formerly of Danbury, entered into eternal peace on Saturday, June 25, 2016, in Orlando, FL.Born in Lewiston, Maine, son of the late Donald P. and Dorothy (Rollins) Beardsley of Danbury, he attended Danbury Schools and proudly served in the United States Army, 82nd Airborne Division as paratrooper during the Korean War period.

He went on to work for many years as Sexton at both St. Peter and Wooster Cemeteries in Danbury, along with completing his final working years at Leahy's Fuels Inc. in Danbury, prior to relocating to Florida. Paul loved conversation and meeting new people. He had the great ability of being able to enter a room of 100 strangers and soon after, leave with 100 new friends. Paul was a welcoming soul who enjoyed life and helping anyone in need.

He was a member and volunteer to many clubs and organizations over the years, but one of his proudest achievements included being an AA member and sponsor for the organization for over 30 years. Paul enjoyed many hobbies, but none so much as being an avid fisherman who loved spending time on the water. Over the years, he enjoyed his summers on Lake Ellis at the family cabin in Athol, MA, with family and friends, handing down his fishing expertise, excellent handyman skills and gardening know how.

Paul had experienced many joys throughout his life, but his greatest were his 20 grandchildren who lovingly called him papa. Paul was a joy to be around and captivated people with the multitude of stories that he willingly shared, along with his heart warming laugh that will be remembered by all. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends, both old and new.

Paul is survived by his children, Christopher Beardsley of Southport, NC.; Paula Pierce of Oak Island, NC.; Holly Bernard of Bolivia, NC.; Brian Beardsley of Bolivia, NC.; Alberto Beardsley of Danbury.; Melissa Beardsley of Naugatuck, and Letitia Almonte of Danbury; his sister Sallie A. Beardsley of Florida; his brother Donald A. Beardsley of Connecticut; his 17 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren and his many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by 3 grandchildren.

A gathering of family and friends took place at Green Funeral Home, 57 Main St., Danbury, on Saturday July 23rd. A private military burial at Florida National Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his memory by visiting, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Trust at cst.dav.org or the American Heart Association atwww.donatenow.heart.org