Paul Birch was a brilliant man. He was born on May 8th, 1963, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Toby and Norma Birch. He grew up in Rochester, New York, where he attended Gates-Chili School. He received his Chemical Engineering Degree from the University of Virginia and his Master’s Degree on Material Science and Engineering from the University of Minnesota.

He was a Navy veteran, an officer engineer aboard the Nuclear Submarine USN 674 Trepang. He was very proud to serve on it, and, later, see it displayed, albeit in pieces, in the Smithsonian exhibit of 2003.

His first priority was always his family. He is survived by his wife Irene, his sons Glen and Daniel, his daughter-in-law Grace, his siblings Patricia (Tracy) Wooton, Sally Payne, and Kenny (Lisa) Birch, his Aunt Dorothy Fisher, his family-in-law, Martín, Betty, Gabi, and Fernando, and his many nephews and nieces. We are all missing him dearly, especially his little ones, Alpine, Flurry, and Juniper.

He was a very hard-working man with high hopes and aspirations. He spent most of his career as an executive in the candle-making industry. From Director of Manufacturing to Vice President, to C.O.O., his achievements left a mark on the trade.

He was continually recognized as a talented problem solver and savvy businessman with an incredible work ethic.

Paul was always happy and highly optimistic, quick-witted and funny. He was ready to help whenever and wherever he was needed. He had an intuitive way of understanding and conveying complex concepts that made him an excellent teacher, leader, and mentor.

He was compassionate, loving, and exceptionally generous, and the most supportive husband and father.

His ever-present smile and his tight hugs always made us how he felt.

Paul, Pablito, mi chiquito, there’s a crater in our lives. You were always our sanity in this crazy world, and our comfort when we needed it. We could always count on you, like an anchor in troubled seas. You listened to us without judgement, and constantly provided us sound advice. You always made sure we made our decisions after thinking things through. You always gave everything 100% of your time and effort (don’t worry we won’t say something silly like a 110%) and you never stopped fighting for what was right.

Your love is here to stay and we will pass it around as the blessing that it was. Thank you so much for being part of our lives. God will keep you until we see you again.

A viewing will be held for Paul on Thursday, February 12th, 2026 from 12 - 2:00 p.m. at the Shepherd Funeral Home, 216 Main Street, Kingston, MA. The service will take place following the viewing.

If you wish to honor Paul, please adopt a pet.