Paul F. Paone, 90, of Lexington, formerly of Somerville, entered into rest on January 3, 2022. Born and raised in Somerville by Italian immigrant parents, Salvatore Cosmo Paone and Maria (Dinitto) Paone, Paul learned the value of hard work from an early age. At the age of 11, he began working at Roma Baking Co., near Union Square, sweeping the flour-covered floors. Paul continued working at Roma, eventually as its owner, for more than six decades. He poured his heart, soul, energy, and nearly every waking hour into the bakery, which produced and distributed authentic Italian bread for local businesses and walk-in customers alike. He often repeated the phrase, “No matter what happens, people gotta eat.” And, remembering disturbing images of lengthy bread lines from the Great Depression, he regularly provided food and other support to people in need.
A gregarious personality, Paul loved to eat, drink, and speak his mind. More than just about anything, he delighted in breaking bread or raising a glass of Hennessy with those he loved.
During his 61-year career, Paul only took one leave from the bakery, to serve in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. In Korea as in his civilian life, he took great pride and hard-won pleasure in preparing food for others. He embraced the responsibility of serving soldiers near the front lines, and throughout the rest of his life, he loved to recount stories about adventurous holiday meals with the troops. Even amidst the uncertainty and danger of battle, “people gotta eat”.
Those left to cherish Paul’s memory include his devoted daughter, Linda Paone Hirschberg and her husband David; his loving brother Danny Paone and his wife Marie; his dedicated son-in-law Joe Larose; his close friend, Gus Rego, who was like a son to him, and his wife Maria; many caring nieces and nephews, several cherished godchildren, countless friends, and the treasured team of caregivers who enabled him to enjoy his final years with the relative independence he so valued.
Paul was preceded in death by his wife of more than 50 years, Betty (DeRosa), his daughters, Maria Paone, and Andrea Larose, and his sisters, Theresa Fedele, Emily Salvucci, and Mary Paone.
Funeral services were held privately, due to the current public health crisis.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul’s memory may be made to Daughters of St. Paul, 50 Saint Pauls Ave, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 or to MSPCA, www.mspca.org.