Paul Francis Antonelli, Jr.
Marriages
Gloria "Marilyn" Rawding - September 27, 1952
Obituaries
Daily Sentinel page 5C - August 15, 2021
Paul Francis Antonelli,
Sr. passed away quietly at
home on August 1, 2021,
with his family at his side
following a long, fulfilling
life.
Paul was born in
Fitchburg, Massachusetts,
December 5, 1927, to
Stephen and Christine
(Stella) Antonelli, the
eldest of five brothers, Paul,
Stephen, Frank, Joseph,
and Michael. He grew up in
Medford, Massachusetts,
and attended the Medford
Vocational School,
studying electronics. He
worked in the Boston Naval Yard prior to enlisting in
the Navy in February 1945, near the end of WWII. After
the war ended, he resumed his high school education,
graduating from Medford High School in June 1947.
Following graduation, Paul immediately enlisted in
the Air Force and served in Japan. He was honorably
discharged in June 1950. His time in the Military
was very important to him as evidenced by the many
interesting stories he told his family.
In 1950, Paul became smitten with Gloria “Marilyn”
Rawding, a nursing student whom he married
on September 27, 1952. Together, they moved to
Amherst, New Hampshire and raised five children
(who affectionately called him “Daddio”). After his
fourth child was born, Paul enrolled in the Lowell
Technological Institute Division of Evening Studies to
study electrical engineering technology. He graduated
with an Associate degree in Engineering in 1963.
Paul was employed at the USAF/Electronic
Systems Division (ESD) at Hanscom Field Air
Force Base in Bedford, Massachusetts, serving as a
Supervisory Electronic Engineer for Military Satellite
Communication Systems. He was responsible for the
initiation of satellite communications research and
technology development projects to establish a reliable
Military Satellite communications system. He retired
from Hanscom Field AFB/ESD in December 1982.
Paul loved his family and his home in Amherst.
He loved to sit on his porch and read his newspaper,
especially when there were thunderstorms. He toiled in
his vegetable garden in the summer to put fresh food
on the table. Each weekend he would cook dinner to
give his lovely wife a break. On Saturday he made beef
stew and Sunday his delectable spaghetti and meatballs
was thoroughly enjoyed. Paul was an avid golfer,
playing regularly at the Amherst Country Club. He also
enjoyed playing poker and socializing with friends at
the Milford, NH VFW.
After retirement, Paul and Marilyn traveled in their
RV, moved to Florida, and finally moved to and settled
in Grand Junction during 2000. Marilyn, a silver life
master, played bridge, and Paul played poker with his
buddies.
Paul’s parents and three brothers preceded him
in death. He had nine grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren, who brought him great joy. He is survived
by his wonderful wife, Marilyn; children, Nancy (Alan)
Galbreath, Paul Jr., Kris (Torbjorn) Karlsen, Stephen
(Michelle) Antonelli, and Norma (David) West;
youngest brother, Michael (Noreen); sister-in-law, Lisa
Antonelli (Frank), and his aunt, Grace (Stella) Carrier.
Paul and his family appreciated the care he received
from his NP Cindy and RN Valerie at the VA; the
special RN Susan and SW Teresa from HopeWest; as
well as, Hui cha who provided friendship, meals and
other caring support for many years.
Visitations may be made on August 18, 2021, at
Callahan-Edfast Mortuary from 3 - 5:00 p.m., followed
by a private Military Service at the Veteran’s Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation
Army, Food Bank of the Rockies, or HopeWest Hospice.
