Paul David Phaneuf, 68, of Sandy Hook, passed away unexpectedly on September 16, at Hartford Hospital.

He was the beloved husband and best friend of Jeanne Marie Sheil for 26 years. Together, they raised a beautiful loving family. Their three children, Thomas Phaneuf, Colleen Phaneuf, and Erin Phaneuf, will forever remember the love, friendship, and lessons their father left them.

Paul was born to Philias and Rita (Martel) Phaneuf on October 18, 1955. He was the brother of Jean (Henry) Zola, Nancy (Jim) Reese, Margaret (Bill) Puza.

He was predeceased by his sister Bettyann (Richard) Mekal.

He also leaves his extended family, Peter (Ellen) Sheil, Rachel (the late Frank) Lacombe, Marianne (Vin) Britt, Jim (Karen) Sheil, Patrice (Michael) Afflitto, The late John (Christine) Sheil, Kate (Ed) Sady, Regina (Noel) Graydon, Christopher (Diane) Sheil, Colleen (Andrew) DeVita, Margaret (Tedd) Cecchetelli and Michael (Debbie) Sheil. Paul was also a special uncle to 47 nieces and nephews and 50 great nieces and nephews.

Paul attended Catholic schools throughout his adolescence, graduating from Cathedral High School. He then went on to earn two associate degrees from Springfield Technical Community College. Thereafter, he earned his bachelor degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Massachusetts. While attending both of these institutions he served his community in Chicopee as a full time firefighter; he spent nine years working for the department. Paul began his career working for Pratt and Whitney. During his employment at P&W he earned his master’s in mechanical engineering from Western New England College. In 1995, he started at Girard Rubber Inc., in New York, where he worked for 29 years.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Paul’s family Monday, September 23, between 4 and 8 pm, at Spadaccino and Leo P. Gallagher & Son Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike in Monroe. His funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, September 24, at 11 am at St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road in Newtown. Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Paul’s name may be made to the American Heart Association by following this link https://ahatribute.funraise.org/fundraiser/colleen-phaneuf, or to St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown CT 06470.

For complete obituary, visit spadaccinofuneralhome.com.