Paul Lewis Sugarman

Paul Lewis Sugarman, 81, of Franklin, MA, passed away on Sunday, June 18, 2023. Paul was born on January 11, 1942, to Aaron and Lillian Rees Sugarman. Paul and his younger brother Geoffrey, with whom he shared a close bond, were raised in Newton, MA.

Paul will be missed by his wife of 37 years, Donna Ambrose Sugarman; daughter, Robin Heroux (husband Dan), Julie Ramsey (husband Jeremy); brother, Geoffery Sugarman (wife Judy); grandchildren, Noah, Eli, and Reese; nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends.

Paul's passion for sailing started as a teenager. He and his best friend, Steve Andelman, decided to build a trimaran in the backyard of his Newton home. They successfully launched and raced "Chicken of the Sea" in Boston Harbor and Lake Sunapee. They enjoyed many sailing adventures over their 70+ year friendship, alongside close friends Richard Siegel and Ed Shulkin.

Paul and Donna were married in 1986 and lived in Massachusetts until moving to Florida in 1990, where they continued their careers in Medical Laboratory Product Sales. Living in Florida meant many adventures - Sailing the west coast and east coast to the Florida Keys and Bahamas - and living aboard both sailboats and motor yachts in South Florida for eight years. They developed lifelong friendships and memories.

In 2017, Paul and Donna purchased a Motorhome and traveled extensively across the country - enjoying new experiences and friendships. The National Parks were a favorite.

In 2019, Paul and Donna returned to Massachusetts to be close to family. Fondly known as Papa, he loved spending time with his three grandchildren. Paul was quite a jokester. He had a fantastic sense of humor and appreciated anyone who would laugh with him at his jokes.

Paul often had a "project" he was working on, never shying away from a challenge, whether fixing his sailboat, painting a wall, installing new appliances, or redoing things around the house. He was an avid reader, loved science, and enjoyed a heated political discussion! His family often joked he should be a contestant on Jeopardy.

Paul volunteered for Lee County Accountability Board and became a Guardian Ad Litem in Ocala, FL. His contributions were remarkable. Paul received accolades for his service and dedication to children and the communities.

A private family service will take place later this year. In honoring his wishes, he will become part of the Neptune Memorial Reef in Key Biscayne, FL.

In remembrance of Paul, Memorial donations may be made to the Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation. https://guardianadlitem.org