Paul L. Goetz Sr.

Paul L. Goetz Sr., 88, of Rome, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2025. Born in Rome on February 22, 1936, he was the son of Edward and Margaret (Delaney) Goetz.

On April 17, 1959, he was united in marriage to Doris Goetz. For almost 60 years, Paul and Dolly worked together to raise a family, run a business, and enjoy life together. Paul was a communicant at St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

Following in the footsteps of his father, Paul was a master mechanic. His mechanical talents provided the foundation for his successful businesses Goetz Chevron, Goetz Trucking and ultimately, Lee Center Sand and Gravel. Paul and Dolly retired upon the sale of the business in 2005. Paul often said that he loved his job so much that he never worked a day in his life.

Family came first for Paul. He cared deeply for his wife, his children, and his grandchildren. "Boompa" enjoyed attending his grandchildren's award ceremonies, sporting events, and dance recitals. He cherished the individual relationships he had with each of his brothers.

He was a mentor, teacher, and entrepreneur. He was held in high regard by those who had the opportunity to know him. His garage was where he found solace. People often stopped by to share stories and enjoy camaraderie. He lent a listening ear and gave sound advice without judgment. While Paul's first love was his home, he enjoyed his yearly trips to the Daytona 500 with his best friend Al, and visits to Sylvan Beach, Atlantic City, and Las Vegas.

Paul is survived by his three daughters and sons-in-law, Shelley and Scott Granger, Jill and Jim McCarthy, and Amy and Joseph Mellace; a son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Melody Goetz Jr.; his brother Philip Goetz; nine grandchildren, Brett and William Granger, Allison and Paul Goetz III, Lauren and Daniel McCarthy, and Joseph Jr., Sophia and Andrew Mellace. In addition, he will be missed by his sisters-in-law Maggie Goetz, Marilyn Goetz, Bonnie Goetz, Doris Baldigo and Suzie Chyrywaty and several cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by an infant daughter, Patti Ann; and his brothers Edward, Joseph and R. Terry.

The family acknowledges his special caregivers for the love and compassion shown to him during his recent years.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday March 1, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Lee Center. Family and friends are invited to call at Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome, on Friday, February 28, 2025 from 4-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Paul's memory may be made to the St. Joseph's Church Memorial Fund or the Abraham House 1203 Kemble Street, Utica, New York 13501.

You may view the obituary and send a message of sympathy at www.nunnandharper.com.