Paul W. Degnim Sr.

Paul W. Degnim, Sr., 83, of 20 Veterans Memorial Drive Franklin, died Monday May 7, 2012 at Harrington House, Walpole, after a long illness. He was the husband of Marylou (O'Connor) Degnim for 55 years. Born in Boston on April 16, 1929, he was the son of the late George and Mildred (Kelly) Degnim. He grew up in Dedham, and graduated from Dedham High School in 1948. He was a resident of Franklin for 50 years and was an active member of the community. He was on the Council on Aging for 12 years and played an integral part in securing the land and funding for the Franklin Senior Center, as well as the Eaton Place senior housing complex. He coached youth sports teams in Franklin for many years, including hockey, basketball, and baseball. He was an avid fisherman and his nickname "The Old Pro" was coined by his son, Paul Jr. during their many fishing excursions on Lake Pearl. He was a dedicated Boston sports fan, and especially enjoyed watching the Patriots and Red Sox. Mr. Degnim was employed by Masoneilan International in Norwood as a technical specifications writer until his retirement in 1986. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War. In addition to his devoted wife, he leaves his children, James W. Degnim and his wife, Amy, of Rochester, MN, Denise M. Cardone and her husband, Thomas,of Springfield, Mark J. Degnim, of Uxbridge, his daughter-n-law, Kristin Degnim of Chapel Hill,NC, and six grandchildren- Danielle and Thomas Cardone of Springfield, Max and Sam Degnim of Uxbridge, and Owen and Andrew Degnim of Rochester, MN. He was predeceased by his son, Paul W. Degnim, Jr. of Chapel Hill, NC in 2002, his twin brother, Vincent B. Degnim in 1996, and his brother, George Degnim in 1982. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Mass Saturday May 12th at 10AM in St. Mary's Church, 1 Church Sq. Franklin. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. There are no public calling hours. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Franklin Senior Center, 10 Daniel McCahill Street, Franklin, MA 02038. Arrangements are in the care of the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. Franklin, www.otrerifuneralhome.com.