1946 - 2025
Born in Boston on November 14, 1946, Paul was the son of the late Robert and Gertrude (Bering) Barcelo. He was raised in Lynnfield and lived in Franklin for many years before recently settling in Bellingham.
A proud veteran, Paul served honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of First Lieutenant. For his distinguished service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Army Aviation Badge. He continued his military service in the Army Reserve for over two decades, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.
Paul was a graduate of Northeastern University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English. He found great joy in writing, including publishing his own novel, The Sweet War Man, as well as reading, and spending time with his family and his beloved dog, Brady.
In addition to his wife, Paul is survived by his children — Gregory P. Barcelo and his wife Alicia of Pawtucket, RI; Catherine M. Rosenthal of Douglas; Robert F. Barcelo and his wife Kathleen of Norfolk; and Brianna E. Barcelo of Franklin. He was the brother of the late Linda Stipek-Lafond.
Paul is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Rory and Maddox Barcelo, Jack and Oliver Rosenthal, and Abigail and Lillian Barcelo.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (ginleyfuneralhomes.com), 131 Main Street, Franklin.
Burial with military honors will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 1:15 p.m. at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul’s memory to the HunterSeven Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of post-9/11 veterans.
