Paul E. Earle, 87, of Hannawa Falls, NY passed away peacefully on November 16, 2017 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital with family at his side.

Born on February 27, 1930 in Malone, NY to E. Purdy Earle and Laurel Hosmer Earle, Paul graduated from Franklin Academy High School. He joined the US Navy, proudly serving for five years aboard the USS Leary as an electrician’s mate in the Mediterranean.

He married Dorothy Perham in May 1953 in Malone. Initially, the couple settled in Burke, NY before moving to Hannawa Falls, in July 1957.

In addition to his wife of 64 years, he is survived by five children: Donna Earle Seymour (Glenn), Potsdam, NY, Susan Earle Dragan (Bob), Albuquerque, NM, Paul F. (Skip) Earle (Carole), Key West, FL, James A. Earle (Charlene), Salt Lake City, UT, and Robert F. Earle (Angela), Syracuse, 13 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his “adopted” son, Mike Goliber of Hannawa Falls.

Paul was predeceased by his only sibling, Richard A. Earle, and a grandson, Joseph P. Earle.

He began his post-naval work career at the Eldridge and Mason Auto Dealership in Malone. He then worked as a heavy equipment operator on the St. Lawrence Seaway. He was employed by Niagara Mohawk in 1956, retiring as Chief Mechanic after a 30-year career.

Paul E. Earle was a very proud man. His word meant everything to him and he respected honest, hard-working individuals who loved and cared for their family, community and country, just as he did.

He was a charter member of the Hannawa Falls Volunteer Fire Department. From the initial discussions in 1960 to the building of firehouses, he marched proudly in uniform with his Dalmatian, “Hanna – the Hannawa Hound,” who became the department’s mascot. He served as Chief in 1964 and in various other roles during his tenure.

Arrangements are with the Donaldson-Seymour Funeral Home in Potsdam, NY. After a private burial, the family will hold a celebration of life at their convenience at a later date.

If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Hannawa Falls Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 39, Hannawa Falls, NY 13647, to the Advanced Illness Management (AIM) Program of Hospice & Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Highway 11, Potsdam, NY 13676, or Meals on Wheels, St. Lawrence County Office of the Aging, 80 State Highway 310, Canton, New York, NY 13617.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.donaldsonseymour.com.

The Earle family wishes to thank the doctors and medical staff of Canton-Potsdam Hospital for their excellent care during his last few months when he was a patient on several occasions. They also wish to thank Missy Heylen and the staff of AIM of St Lawrence Valley Hospice for their treatment and care of him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul E. Earle, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

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