Paul P. Yonkers, Sr.

Paul Yonkers Sr. of Averill Park died peacefully in his home Thursday, July 22, 2021 after a long illness. He was born in Rensselaer, NY on February 12, 1933, the youngest child of Therese (Hausmann) and John Yonkers. Paul was the loving husband of Barbara Crawford Yonkers for 62 years. He is survived by his children, Susan, David (Hydee), Paul (Dixie), Helen Russo (Jim), Gary (Deidre), Jennifer Klena (Rich), Jeanne Taylor (Tim), and Karen Callanan (David), 18 grandchildren, one great grandchild and many nieces, nephews and their spouses, children and grandchildren. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, his parents, his sister, Sister Helen Yonkers, RSM, and brothers John, Chris and Arthur Yonkers. Paul was a 1952 graduate of St. John’s Academy in Rensselaer, NY. He served in the US Army during the Korean War and was stationed in San Antonio, Texas. Paul married his wife, Barbara, in 1955. The couple soon moved to beautiful Burden Lake, where he lived until the time of his death. Paul was a faithful parishioner of the Catholic Community of St. Henry in Averill Park, a member of the Knights of Columbus, a long-time member of the James Hill Hook and Ladder Company #1 and a founding member of the Burden Lake Conservation Association (formerly the Burden Lake Improvement Association). Throughout his life, Paul was known for his characteristic gentleness, kindness and caring. He extended warmth and kind inquiries about everyone, keeping close track of developments in the lives of each of his children and grandchildren, friends and neighbors. Paul took an active interest in the world around him, appreciating beauty everywhere, and sharing it with others readily. Whether he came upon a full moon on the lake, a beautiful flower in the garden or a building with striking architecture, he noticed it all. He enjoyed singing and was a talented whistler; his melodic trills let you know when he was nearby. His playful wit — and accompanying smirk — was a joy to his family and will be lovingly remembered. Paul was an avid bee-keeper, gardener and carpenter, willing to help any in need and making fast friends with others through his work and interests. After their children were grown, Paul and Barbara enjoyed special trips to Italy and Alaska, and especially loved visiting dear family to celebrate special birthdays, christenings of new babies and other events. Together, they rarely missed a birthday party, recital or sporting event for their grandkids. His strong love and care for all, and his appreciation of the world around him endeared Paul to friends and family throughout his long life. The family extends heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the loving care shown to Paul during his illness by Andrew, and his many other kind caregivers. Calling hours will be at the W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., 1700 Washington Avenue Rensselaer on Wednesday July 28, from 4-7 pm. A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, July 29, at 11:00 am at the Catholic Community of St. Henry in Averill Park. Interment will follow the Mass at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery East Greenbush. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to: Burden Lake Conservation Association’s Water Quality Fund PO Box 656 Averill Park, NY 12018 or Catholic Community of St. Henry PO Box 550 17 Crystal Lake Road Averill Park, NY 12018