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Paul Drescher Obituary
Born to William and Mary (O'Brien) Drescher on July 14, 1953, in Syracuse, Paul was a lifelong Central New Yorker. He graduated from Henninger High School (1971) and Le Moyne College (1975). Paul was a devoted Catholic and a parishioner of both St. Mary's Church in Baldwinsville and St. Lucy's Church in Syracuse. He was a Knight in the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (SMOM).
A fourth-generation owner of the family business, Paul led with warmth, integrity, and an unmatched ability to connect with others. He was a tireless supporter of local causes, serving on numerous boards throughout his life-including Le Moyne College, the Syracuse Symphony Foundation, and as former President of the Christian Brothers Academy Board of Directors. He also led the family's charitable foundation, through which he touched thousands of lives with his philanthropic spirit.
Paul loved people. He loved to talk, to listen, to laugh, and to bring joy wherever he went. He was a fixture in any room he entered-always quick with a story, a handshake, or a heartfelt question. Summers on Lake Ontario and winters in Key West were treasured times, but his greatest joy was his family.
He is predeceased by his parents, William and Mary Drescher, and his brother-in-law, Charles Cavallaro.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Maureen Guy Drescher; his children, Kathleen Drescher, Michael Drescher (Jessica Drescher, née Jeong), and Molly Drescher (Niv Calderon); and his grandchildren, Oliver and Eloise. He also leaves behind six siblings; Anne Louise (Harry), Peter Drescher (Mary), W. J. Drescher Jr. (Lucinda), Mary Ellen Drescher, John Drescher (Janet), and Elizabeth Drescher as well as several nieces and nephews. His new puppy, Violet, brought him comfort and companionship in recent months, and his daughter's dog, Goldie, was a beloved and constant presence in his life.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at St. Lucy's Church, 432 Gifford St., Syracuse, NY 13204. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 259 E. Onondaga St., Syracuse, NY 13202. The Rite of Committal and burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul's memory to Road to Emmaus Ministries or St. Lucy's Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paul Drescher
Sponsored by The Family.
Kathy Davis
August 8, 2025
My heart felt condolences to paul and his family. His presence as at Davis bros as he was our supplier from the Drescher Corporation was not just sales but a friend of our family business. Rest in peace Paul
Gary & Dick
August 8, 2025
We really didn´t know Mr. Drescher directly, but we know of his dedication to and love for everyone that was fortunate enough to be touched by his presence.
Our hearts go out to the entire Drescher family, but especially to his beautiful daughter Kate and his wife´s brother Glen. If these two individuals reflect anything of the heart of this family, you were all blessed to be a part of this man´s life.
Kate and Glen, our hearts go out to you both as we wish you many warm memories to brighten all your tomorrows. We hope that you know that others truly care and are praying for you during these difficult times.
Sending our love and hugs . . .
Peggy Storinge
August 4, 2025
Maureen so sorry for your loss. It´s been years since I´ve seen you but think of you often. Prayers to you and your family.
Peggy Storinge
Cindy shaw
August 1, 2025
I have a fond memory of Paul a 7 foot man coming to my office in the Town of Ellisburg, talking to me like we were best friends, I enjoyed when he did came into my office , talking about his assessment to his home in Key West .. our last conversation was to stop town to my office you have a gift waiting .. I am so sad that my friend is gone. My condolences to his family I am sure he will be missed dearly.. Cindy Shaw
Dennis Rounsaville
August 1, 2025
To the Family of Paul, hearing that Paul passed made me sad to hear. I knew him to be a strong hard worker and one whom is very friendly. He will be missed. Absolutely a great guy. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Lorraine Szilagyi
August 1, 2025
Dear Drescher Family,
Our deepest sympathy in the loss of Paul. He definitely led a full life. Our son Geoff was good friends with Mike and my husband Stephen Szilagyi taught many of the children at Longbranch Elementary.
Our thoughts & prayers are with the whole family.
Sincerely sympathy
Stephen& Lorraine Szilagyi
Frank Lazarski
August 1, 2025
I will always remember Paul with a smile and good thought for our conversations over lunch, at halftime of SU football games, and at various social events.
He was indeed one of the very best of the best in our community!
Rest in Peace, Paul.
Joe Gibbons
July 31, 2025
My heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Drescher family . Paul was truly a special person and will be missed by all that had the good fortune of knowing him. Rest in peace Paul
Harry Louise
July 31, 2025
To Paul´s family. No words can express the loss of Paul. To me he was not only a brother-in-law but a true best friend. I am thankful for his kindness, generosity, sharing and just being Paul. He was an unassuming man who gave from his heart. I am sure the legacy he has left has brought some comfort. May he rest in peace.
Patrick W Aregano
July 31, 2025
Sending "Heart Felt Condolences" to all of Paul's families, friends and mutual acquaintance's, very sad to see this, you couldn't find a more genuine, kind, generous man who was loved by all, may he rest in peace.
Roger and Nancy Nelson
July 30, 2025
Nancy and I are very fortunate to be Paul and Maureen´s next door neighbors in Key West. It has always been a highlight of our winter when they arrived. Over the last years they have become great friends. Paul was always ready to exchange stories about ongoing construction project, the church, family and life in general. Conversations evidenced his wonderful sense of humor (often times full of sarcasm). Paul was one of the most generous and empathetic men we ever met. We can´t adequately express how saddened we are that he passed but we know that such a great man has earned the ultimate reward in the next chapter. We will miss you Paul. Our sincere condolences to Maureen and Paul´s entire family. The Nelson´s
David and Patty Lazarz
July 30, 2025
We are so sorry to hear of Paul´s passing. We always enjoyed seeing him at St.Lucy´s. He always had a smile, a handshake and a genuine interest in speaking with us! We will remember him as a true gentleman.Our sympathies are with you and your family at this time. David and Patty Lazarz
Paula and Daniel Cupelo
July 30, 2025
Our deepest sympathy to the whole family .My mother and Marie Cullen loved his company and will miss him deagly
Marti Raate
July 30, 2025
Sorry for your loss. The late Connell Raate always spoke highly of Paul and the rest of the Dreschers.
Had fuller
July 30, 2025
I believe the obituary you wrote for Paul was perfect! It was his joy, warmth and congenial handshake that makes me smile.
Pat Ehle
July 30, 2025
Maureen, Mike, Kate and the rest of the Drescher family.
Lynne and I, along with Ben and Andy and family, will miss Paul at the Point.
He was always such a kind and generous man and makes it me very sad to write about him.
I hope you find peace knowing he was loved by everyone. I got asked about him at almost every pitch league game,
I will be sure the members of the Pitch Leagues know. (Sand Bar & Sandy Pond club of course Ernie played in both)
Patrick Flaherty
July 29, 2025
I had the privilege of getting to know Paul at the gym. He was a friend and a mentor, always upbeat and smiling, offering a joke and wisdom. He was so kind...one time he did something for me and my family that really showed me how truly special he was. Of course it was done anonymously, but it could not have been anyone except Paul. I have not seen him in a few years and I wish I had taken the opportunity to tell him what he meant to me. Unfortunately, I am out of town and will not be able to attend the services, please know how sorry I am for your loss. Paul was one of a kind, he truly made me a better man and I am thankful to have had the opportunity to spend time with him.
Joan Cincotta
July 29, 2025
I was so sad to learn of Paul's passing and would like to offer my deepest sympathy to Maureen and the family. Paul was kind and gentle to everyone and he will be greatly missed by so many. I had many contacts with him over the years but especially through the Order of Malta, Le Moyne College and Emmaus Ministry. My sincere condolences to all who knew and loved him. May he rest in the peace of Our Lord. Joan Cincotta
Kurt & Cathy Schotthoefer
July 29, 2025
Michael & Jessica,
We were so sad to hear of Paul's passing. Speaking to Paul once was all it took to tell what a special person he was. May the Savior give you and the family strength during this very sad time.
Kurt & Cathy Schotthoefer
Gary B Crossland
July 29, 2025
We met Paul through a business association but we quickly became friends. We were so saddened to hear of his untimely passing. Such a wonderful person! We will miss him deeply as will so many others.
Gary and Andra Crossland
Len Cisternino
July 29, 2025
Paul, Our LeMoyne 208 Brother, you will be missed beyond words - We are blessed to have had you in our lives during and after the college years - I will never forget our 50th Reunion, the shared recall of memories and the bursts of laughter related to them - The attached recent pic of the two of us at Harvey´s will always be a lasting memory I will cherish - Love and Peace to You and Your Family
Theresa Quilty
July 29, 2025
Lots of love and CBA support!
Phil Gordon
July 29, 2025
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Milton Richards Amy Bublak
July 28, 2025
Amy and I are so sorry to hear of Paul´s passing. My dad loved working for him and will be happy to be reunited with him in heaven. He was a true friend who support my wife's campaigns and helped me in career through generous donations when I was Athletic Director at several
schools including UAlbany. He will be missed
Fred Barnhart
July 28, 2025
My sincere condolences to the entire family,Paul was a true gentleman.
Patti Callahan
July 28, 2025
Oh Paul! I am so very saddened to hear of your passing. My heart breaks for your family whom you adored. Your impact on the Central New York community cannot be measured. Your kindness, candor, compassion, generosity, and that Irish twinkle in your eyes will be remembered by many and cherished in my heart forever. I so enjoyed working with you at Christian Brothers Academy - we made a great team and accomplished a great deal - building relationships and bringing in much-needed funding. I especially remember partnering with the indomitable Dennis Owen in our efforts! Your nurturing nature under challenging circumstances is admired by many. I am proud to call you friend and colleague. I will miss you... and... you still owe me that manhattan. Surely God will bless you with eternity, fully whole and shaking up the heavens! With love, ~Patti xoxooxoxox
Tom Carello
July 28, 2025
I was floored when I saw the news about Paul. He was a great person and he will be missed.
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