Obituary of Paul Etchells

Paul Etchells of Woodstock, CT, passed peacefully at his home, September 8, 2011 at the age of 93. He was born in North Andover, Massachusetts June 18, 1918, son of Henry and Beatrice Etchells. Paul served in the Navy during World War II where shortly after returning married his loving wife of 59 years Rita whose death preceded his in May of this year. Paul and his late brother were the founders and owners of Union Engravers. They started the company in 1949 in Thompson and moved it to Putnam in 1952. He was the company's President for many years. While officially retiring in 1983 he enjoyed staying Involved in company activities and would help in any way he could. He was at the offices as recently as three weeks ago. While living in Woodstock for 59 years Paul was very involved in many organizations, while also serving on several boards. He was past chairman of Woodstock Board of Finance, served on the Woodstock Academy Board of Trustees, was a corporator at Day Kimball Hospital, a member of the Putnam Chamber of Commerce, past President of the Northeast CT Heart Association, past President of the Woodstock Lions Club, member of Woodstock Boy Scout Troop Committee, past President of the Woodstock Little League and a member of the Woodstock Congregational Church. Paul was an avid golfer and a member at Quinnatisset Golf Club for 49 years and served on their Board of Governors. Paul and his wife traveled extensively in New England, Western United States and Europe. Paul is survived by his daughter Karen of Woodstock, son Chuck of Woodstock, son Gary of Putnam, grandson Caleb of Woodstock, and granddaughter Erica of Woodstock. Paul was preceded in death by his sisters Constance McAndrew, Jane Galeucia and brothers Alfred and William Etchells. A Graveside Service will be Tuesday September 13, 2011 at 11:00 AM in the Elmvale Cemetery, Woodstock, CT. No calling hours. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Northeast, CT, PO Box 632, Putnam, CT 06260. Arrangements by the Smith and Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove Street, Putnam, CT. To share a memory "Light a Candle" at www.smithandwalkerfh.com