HOBE SOUND, FL – Paul LaPrise (1932-2026) passed peacefully on May 3rd, 2026, in Hobe Sound, Florida. Paul was born at home in Housatonic, MA on February 
26th, 1932, to William A. LaPrise and Minerva Lee LaPrise. He grew up there with sister Jane and brother Lee. Paul graduated from Searles High School in Great Barrington, MA in 1949 and from Antioch College in Dayton, Ohio in 1955. After college graduation he served in the United States Army as a member of the Counter Intelligence Corps (CIC), including a stint at the Pentagon, in Washington, DC. After leaving the Army, he returned to Massachusetts and began a long career in sales with the Old Colony Envelope Company in Westfield, MA. Upon retirement in 1997, he split his time between Russell, MA and Hobe Sound, Florida.
Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth (Clark), and together they raised their four children. Paul will be deeply missed by his children: son Jeff and his wife Allison Beason of Windsor, CT and their children Benjamin, Samrin, and Lia; son Jay and his wife Carole of Shelton, CT and their children Jillian and Jayson; daughter JoEllen Felkl and her husband Rob of Cornwall, VT and their children Nick and Derek; and son Jed of Andover, VT, and his children Thatcher, Loganne, and Maisen.
Paul was a truly wonderful person whose kindness touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was a constant source of love, encouragement, and support, always ready to listen, share a funny story, lend a helping hand, or sweep a sidewalk. His warm smile made people feel safe and valued, and his generous spirit brought comfort and joy to Ruth, their children, and all their grandchildren. Though his loss leaves an immeasurable emptiness, the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the memories he created will remain with us forever.
Paul’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to all the nurses and caregivers who helped care for their dad in his final days. The family welcomes others to join them for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, August 29th, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., at the Blandford Country Club, on 17 North Street, in Blandford, MA. Light refreshments will be served. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Blanford Fair Association, C/O Jackie Coury, PO Box 875, Blandford, MA 01008.
