Paul William Dower

HOLYOKE

Paul W. Dower of Holyoke, age 100, a proud World War II Veteran, was called home nine days after his one hundredth birthday. Born on June 4, 1920, son of the late Lawrence F. and Marie (Barber) Dower, Paul grew up in South Hadley. A member of the South Hadley High School Class of 1938 and proud Eagle Scout, Paul worked at Valley Photo Engraving for two years before enlisting in the US Army Signal Corps. As a member of the 951st Engineers Topographic Company, Paul specialized in aerial photography serving in England, Africa and Italy. Upon his return to the states he moved with his family to Holyoke where he worked at the Holyoke Transcript-Telegram. He attended Westfield State and went on to work in the printing, engraving and graphic design industry for many years. Paul has been described as the “best neighbor”, “one of a kind”, “totally unique”, “a true Mr. Fix-it”, “always willing to try something new”, “great listener” and “generous with his time and knowledge.”  As a communicant of Our Lady of the Cross Church, he was a humble, kind, generous man. Paul quietly supported many people and organizations. A lover of Mt. Tom and one of a few people granted a "Lifetime Membership" to Killington in Vermont, Paul was an avid skier into his late 80's. A true outdoor enthusiast, he had a zest for life. His curiosity and genuine interest in people led him to share his love of adventure as a founding member of the Explorers Club of Springfield. Throughout his life, he introduced people to his passions: skiing, canoeing, hiking, spelunking, mountain climbing, cycling, trailblazing, gardening and more. Paul was often seen canoeing on the Connecticut River, but his favorite canoe trips were to James River Bay in Canada. Paul was predeceased by his two sisters Francis Dower and Catherine A. Dower of Holyoke. He will be sadly missed by Terry, Allan, Tommy, Lisa, Laurie and all his friends and neighbors. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated TODAY, Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at Our Lady of the Cross Church in Holyoke at 10 AM with a Military Honors burial service immediately following at St. Rose Cemetery in South Hadley. Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home is handling arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “Friends of the Holyoke Soldier’s Home” 110 Cherry St., Holyoke MA 01040.

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