Paul R. Marshall – 75, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2026, at Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, with his daughters by his side.

Born in Malden, MA, on October 17, 1950, he was the youngest son of the late Kenneth and Louise Marshall. He spent his early years in Malden before growing up in North Reading, MA, where he attended North Reading High School.

Paul proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War as a dog handler with a Combat Tracker Team, a role that remained a source of great pride throughout his life.

A skilled finish carpenter by trade, he was a true craftsman and lifelong tinkerer. There was little he couldn’t build or repair.

But perhaps his greatest love was his boat. He spent much of his life living aboard and seemingly every available moment working on it—sanding, staining, varnishing, and getting the “show side” just right. For him, the boat wasn’t simply a hobby or even a home; it was a way of life.

Paul was especially fond of black Labs, good company, and a captive audience for one of his many stories. Naturally social and charismatic, he was always ready with a funny remark. He had a quick wit, a collection of unforgettable one-liners, and a sense of humor entirely his own.

Above all, he was a caring father and devoted grandfather whose family meant everything to him.

Paul leaves behind his daughters, Wendy and her husband Stephen, Kelly and her husband Joel; grandchildren, Destin, Layla, and Kai; nieces and nephews, Deborah, Susan and her husband Larry, Jeffrey and his wife Dena; his goddaughter, Kathleen; and many dear friends.

He was predeceased by his brother, Robert, and sister-in-law, Danielle; and his sister, Patricia, and brother-in-law, James.

His family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital for the kindness, compassion, and care they provided to Paul and his family during his final months.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 13 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading, MA. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul’s memory to the Military Working Dog Team Support Association (MWDTSA), an organization dedicated to supporting military working dogs and their handlers.