Paul M Budzynski

Paul Matthew Budzynski, age 62, of Nantucket, MA passed away unexpectedly from medical complications on October 27, 2025.

A 20+ year resident of Nantucket, Paul was an islander through and through. Kind hearted, charismatic, a talented athlete, always a loyal friend, someone who found things in common with everyone he encountered anywhere and everywhere, always up for adventure, he felt deeply connected to the island and its natural beauty, cool traditions, and caring and unique people that make Nantucket the special place it is and that he loved.

Born on November 6, 1962 in Buffalo, NY, Paul was the eldest of four siblings; one sister arrived soon after in Brooklyn, NY and years of elementary age adventures ensued. Later another sister followed, and finally a kid brother after the family moved out to Smithtown, Long Island, where the adventures continued. Paul truly was the classic, incredible, inspirational older "big" brother. Adventures in the family Ford Esquire Ltd Station Wagon are legendary; those were the days when parents didn't always know where you were and you could even take your siblings out of school with a forged note to go play or take your dog to the beach.

He attended Smithtown High School East where his academic and sporting ability and acting and singing talents forged deep and lasting friendships. Paul was an exceptional student, admired by teachers for his wit, confidence and leadership; they remembered him fondly his entire life. Always, whether it was school, work, sport or hobby Paul learned quickly and well, and was always recognized as someone who had talent, could get a job done, and was also willing and able to help and teach or share what he had been taught.

Paul's love of the water began at a young age in the family backyard pool, and Long Island beaches led to summer lifeguarding jobs. During college at SUNY Albany where he graduated with a BS in Liberal Arts, he was landlocked, but afterwards he found his way to West Palm Beach Florida for a time, where the ocean kayaking was pretty sweet. But Paul was forged in the cold and snow and the Northeast called, as well as the Army, where Paul excelled. He won Soldier of the Year when squad leader assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He served in the 101st Airborne Division, Air Assault and was a commissioned officer 2nd Lieutenant with the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum. Strong and fit, Paul was a proud veteran; admired and respected by everyone he served with.

In 2002 Paul met his beloved Rachel Parrotto and his journey to Nantucket began. Daughter Isabella was born in 2004 and later after Rachel's passing, his son Griffin Marcoux was born in 2009. It is common knowledge that Paul never truly got over the loss of his Rachel, but his children were his pride and joy, and he meant it when he said he was a "proud poppa" telling friends and family about their kind hearts and many accomplishments. Paul had a unique ability to make everyone feel special with his engaging manner. He was sought after by his massage clients, adored by the Nantucket students he taught and had the ability to teach and mentor adults in all his favorite sports. He brought joy to his many endeavors and a smile to the faces of friends and family. His memory will bring us all blessings.

Paul was predeceased by his beloved first wife Rachel, and his mother, Madeline Budzynski. Paul is survived by his children Isabella Budzynski and Griffin Marcoux, former wife Caitlin Marcoux, his father Ronald Budzynski and his siblings Jessica Brown (Jeffrey), Elizabeth Budzynski and Jeffrey Budzynski, his mother- and father-in-law, Linda and Tony Parrotto, as well as many cousins, and two nieces who called him their "cool uncle" which he most certainly was.

Paul wished to be buried alongside Rachel; all are welcome to his graveside service which will be held at Prospect Hill Cemetery on December 27 at 11:00 AM, in the "Old Section" where Paul's ashes will be interred alongside Rachel's grave. A reception will immediately follow at Faregrounds Restaurant to celebrate his life.

Paul will be remembered for many things and by many people whose lives he touched; many will miss kayak & outrigger adventures, and especially playing padel tennis and cribbage with him.

Rest in peace, Paul. You and your incredible blue eyes will be forever missed.

Donations in his memory may be made to his son Griffin's college fund… https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-griffins-college-fund-in-pauls-honor

or the Paul Matthew Budzynski Scholarship, established in his honor by his daughter Isabella, for Nantucket High School students heading to college.

We invite you to visit chapmanfuneral.com and share a message or memory.