Paul R. Desnoyers, 76, whose growing up years were in Gouverneur, passed away August 7, 2021 in Olean. He moved to another area of New York, principally Rochester, before high school graduation but was always a welcomed member of Gouverneur High School, class of 1963.
Paul became a mechanical engineer and worked in his field of expertise his whole career. For well over the past 35 years he had resided in the Allegany area and worked in Olean until his retirement in 2005.
He always kept busy, most often helping others with his generous ways. His longest years of service to others was with the scouting program in Allegany and with the Allegheny Highlands Council at large. With his knowledge of history, trains, music, everything outdoors, especially camping, he made an excellent program camp leader for all Scout outings.
It was Paul’s love of family that kept him happiest. With his 1998 marriage to Esther Scott Barrett, the Desnoyers yearly family reunions, and his very close relationship with his son Michael and his wife Steph, he helped everyone thrive in the blended family relationships.
He leaves behind his loving wife Esther; a son Michael R. (Stephanie) Desnoyers of San Francisco, CA; stepchildren Patrick (Jan) Barrett of Fort Wayne, IN, Paul (Tammy) Barrett of Peckville, PA, Phillip (Kelly Chafee) Barrett of Hinsdale, Peter (Angela) Barrett of Amherst and Jackline (Steve Aloi) Barrett Whitus of Allegany; 9 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; his mother-in-law Ruth Penensick of Florida; 1 sister Cheryl Woloszyn of Fayetteville, NC; 2 brothers Mark Desnoyers of Plattsburgh, PA and Peter Desnoyers of Center Barnstead, NY; 4 sisters-in-law; 1 brother-in-law and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his first wife Harriet Penensick and other close family members.
Family and friends are welcome to join for a celebration of Paul’s life being held picnic style, in Sizerville (PA) State Park (Pavilion 2) located in Portage Township in Cameron County, from 10-5pm on Saturday (September 11, 2021). Burial will be in nearby Portage Township Cemetery.
A special potluck dinner will also take place September 4th at Elklick Scout Camp.
To view Paul’s complete obituary, leave a condolence, and to see a list of where memorials may be made, please visit the funeral home website at oleanfuneralhome.com.