Paul J DeStefani

Paul J. DeStefani, age 64, of New Philadelphia died peacefully, Monday, August 12, 2013 with his wife and children at his side.

A son of the late Charles L. DeStefani and Mary A. Destafani-Vik, Paul was born in Union Hospital at Dover on July 14, 1949.

He was a 1968 graduate of New Philadelphia High School and a 43 year member of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Local 744 of Cleveland having retired following many years of service.

Paul was a strong-willed individual who had an uncanny ability to fix anything or solve any problem he was confronted with. Additionally, he was always willing to lend a hand to others in need and could most often be found working on projects in his barn.

Having touched many lives, he will be missed by many friends and family members who through the years enjoyed listening to one of his famous stories; which somehow grew bigger each time it was shared. Most of all, Paul will be missed by his grandchildren, whom he adored and loved to brag about to others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Juanita DeStefani, his daughters, Alison (Dan) Keathley of Gnadenhutten, Melissa DeStefani of New Philadelphia, Valarie Birone of East Sparta, and Jessica Graziosi of New Philadelphia; four grandchildren, Makayla and Caden Keathley, and Alexandria and Antonio Guarneri and his pet cat, Iggy.

Completing the family are two brothers, Charles (Mary Louise) DeStefani of Westerville, Ronald DeStefani (Lois) DeStefani of Ledrich, Pennsylvania; two sisters, Shirley (Roland) Hyust of Greenville, South Carolina, Mary Jean (Steve) Botos of Pickerington, numerous nieces and nephews as well as many lifelong friends.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by an infant brother, Jerry DeStefani and a sister, Linda McMillan.

In keeping with Paul’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or services. Cremation has taken place through Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley.

Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and light a candle in remembrance of Paul by visiting the funeral home’s website at www.GeibCares.com.