Paul R. Gongaware

1951 - 2025

Paul R. Gongaware, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away at his residence on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, at the age of 74. Born in Greensburg on Jan. 10, 1951, he was the son of the late Jacob and Marjorie Deemer Gongaware. Paul's life was marked by his kind spirit, love for his family, and dedication to his work. Paul grew up in Jeannette, Penn Township, where he attended Penn Joint High School, graduating with the class of 1968. His sense of duty led him to serve his country in the U.S. Army from 1973 to 1977, where he achieved the rank of SP4, a testament to his commitment and discipline. After his honorable discharge, Paul embarked on a distinguished career as a technician in research and development. He devoted 26 years to Westinghouse and continued to share his expertise for an additional 12 years at Sony. Beyond his professional life, Paul was a man of many interests. He had a talent for woodworking; his love for jigsaw puzzles showcased his patience and attention to detail, while his gardening skills brought life and color to his family's home. He shared his life with his loving wife, Suzanne H. Gongaware of Scottdale, who stood by his side in love and partnership. His children, Daniel P. Gongaware, Cindi M. Huffman and her husband, Duane, of Scottdale, and Jeffrey M. Schaeffer and his wife, Jennifer, of Scottdale. Paul's pride and joy were his grandchildren, Alison Huffman, Bret Huffman and his wife, Kristen, Ella Kinter and her husband, Noah, Christian Huffman, Hannah Schaeffer, Tyler Schaeffer, and Benjamin Schaeffer. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Paul's family extended to his Uncle Ralph Deemer of Delmont, who shared in the family's moments of joy and sorrow. In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his siblings, James Gongaware and Helen Fularz. Those who knew Paul will remember him as a loving and kind spirit, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a word of encouragement. Paul's legacy is not only in the work he accomplished and the hobbies he enjoyed but also in the love he gave and the values he instilled in his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and all who were touched by his generous spirit. Paul's family will greet friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in FRANK KAPR FUNERAL HOME INC., 417 Pittsburgh St., Scottdale, PA 15683. A funeral liturgy will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, in the funeral home with Fr. Paul Lustik officiating. Committal services and interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery of Denmark Manor, Export. A military service will be held at 7:45 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in the funeral home, by Mt. Pleasant American Legion Post No. 446. The funeral home doors will be locked in between visiting hours. To view the online obituary, send online condolences, send flowers, or obtain directions, please visit www.kapr.com.