WORCESTER___Paul P. Puris, 89, of Worcester, died Sunday February 22, 2009 in his home, after an illness.
He leaves his beloved wife of 60 years, Genevieve (Zvalauskas) Puris, his sons, Richard P. Puris and his wife Diana of Westford and Philip J. Puris and his wife Gail of Jefferson; his daughter, Karen Shearns and her husband Chuck of Auburn; a son-in-law, Juan Saucedo of North Oxford; four granddaughters, Elizabeth Puris, Kristina Puris, Kayla Shearns and Olivia Shearns and many nephews and nieces. Another daughter, Janice Saucedo died in 2007. He was also predeceased by a sister, Adele R. Ahern. He was born in Trenton, N.J., son of Peter and Elizabeth (Jankauskas) Puris and has lived in Worcester since 1920.
Mr. Puris was the Display Director for the R.H. White Co., and worked there many years before he retired. He was a U.S. Army Air Corps veteran of World War II serving with the 61st Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group in the European Theater of operations.
Mr. Puris was a member of St. Casimir Church and was active in the parish as an usher, a member of the former church Men’s Club and as a Fourth degree member of Council 26 Knights of Lithuania. He was also a member of the Lithuanian Naturalization Club and the Lithuanian Charitable Society. Paul graduated from St. Casimir Grammar School and Commerce High School and continued his education attending college
Paul's artistic talents were evident throughout his home and work, being appreciated by all. He also loved to travel, with some of his fondest vacation memories being his trips to Europe with his wife. But recently, he most cherished his time spent with his four granddaughters, who always brought him much pride and happiness.
Paul's family would like to thank the staff at UMASS Memorial Hospice, especially Kelly and Camille for their gentle care.
The funeral will be held on Wednesday, February 25 from HENRY-DIRSA FUNERAL HOME, 33 Ward Street, with a Mass at 10:00 a.m. in St. Casimir Church, 41 Providence Street. Burial will be in Notre Dame Cemetery. Calling hours in the funeral home are Tuesday, February 24 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Members of Council 26 Knights of Lithuania will meet at 6:30 p.m. during calling hours to conduct their ritual. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to UMASS Memorial Hospice, care of UMASS Memorial Foundation, Biotech One, 650 Lincoln St., Worcester, Ma., 01613-9938.