Paul I. Bower

Bower, Paul Ira, age 74, of Shelton, beloved husband of Anita Janson-Bower, passed away on Monday, June 27, 2022 after a brief illness. Born on March 7, 1948 in Syracuse, NY to the late George and Lucille Bower, Paul grew up in Liverpool, NY and proudly embraced his Irish heritage. While still in school Paul found his calling in life as a baker. Paul would climb out of his bedroom window in the early morning hours (undetected by his mother) and ride his bike to the local bakery where he began to learn the skills that became a lifelong passion. After which he would pedal back home and go off to school. Paul spent two years in the Naval Reserve before venturing out into the world by literally baking his way across America. Over the years Paul traveled across the country by car, eventually baking his way through and living in a total of 38 states. At each bakery Paul added new skills to his list of creative accomplishments while expanding and perfecting his many creative talents. Paul went on to own his own bakery and sandwich shop in Seattle, Washington. Eventually Paul moved to Bakersfield, California where he joined the Costco bakery team. Paul worked for Costco for over 20 years which provided him opportunities to relocate to several Costco bakeries and eventually work his way back to the East Coast landing in Milford, Connecticut. While in Connecticut Paul met his wife, Anita, and settled in the City of Shelton. Paul was well-known for his resemblance to Santa Claus especially during the Christmas holidays when he would wear a Santa hat and red suspenders while working. Paul enjoyed being the inspiration for many smiles and whispers from children shopping with their families when they spotted "Santa" working behind the scenes as a Costco baker! Paul eventually agreed to attend Costco's annual Children's Christmas Party as Santa with his wife at his side as Mrs. Claus. It was one of the highlights of their marriage to watch children's faces light up when Santa arrived! Upon retirement Paul enjoyed puttering in his woodworking shop, tending to the Koi pond and wildlife sanctuary he built for his wife, and watching the Syracuse Orangemen's basketball team on TV with an ice cold Pepsi in his hand! Paul loved nature and wildlife including many very special kitties he and his wife adopted over the years. Paul was predeceased by his parents and older brother, David. He is survived by his devoted, supportive and loving wife, Anita of 18 years, their 3 kitties and the many friends Paul met during his lifetime. Paul was a gentle giant with a heart of gold. There are no calling hours and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the Shelton Animal Shelter, 20 Brewster Street, Shelton, CT 06880 or to any no-kill animal rescue group of your choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Galello-Luchansky Funeral Home, 2220 Main Street, Stratford. 

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