Paul Louis Melanson

It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of Paul Louis Melanson due to advanced stage Parkinsons and Dementia. Born into this world on January 25, 1943, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Paul was received into the loving arms of Jesus on February 26, 2022. Paul resided in Laguna Woods, California with his wife Carolyn. He is preceded in death by his father, Frank J. Melanson; mother, Yvonne (Roy) Melanson; and grandson, Chandler Melanson. Paul is survived by his former wife Elaine Melanson and their children, Keith Melanson (Robyn), Michelle Melanson, and Todd Melanson (Kirsten); stepdaughters Jen Canseco, Sarah Garfinkel, and Becky Garfinkel (Seth); grandchildren; Kaila Melanson, Brock Melanson, Paige Melanson, Curen and step-grandchildren; Brittany Canseco, Guy Canseco, and Kadin Garfinkel. From his early 20’s Paul worked in the printing industry beginning at Heffernan Press in Worcester, Massachusetts as a linotype operator. After marrying his high school sweetheart, Elaine, they had three children together and moved to California in the early 70’s. He went to work for the Los Angeles Times selling Classified Real Estate Ads. Upon retiring from the Times in the mid 1980-s, he established a Children’s newspaper called Kid’s MAGA Zoid and then later sold printed promotional items for Allied Memo Pads. In 2003, he married his current wife Carolyn, and after Paul retired in 2005, they enjoyed many years of traveling, camping, and family time. Paul is best known for his love of cars, jeeps especially, and motorcycles. He owned several throughout his retirement years. He always maintained a “workbench” and was Mr. Fix-It in Seal Beach Leisure World for 18 years, and in Laguna Woods Leisure World for the last 4 years. Paul was loyal to his friends and maintained friendships stemming from childhood. In his final years in Laguna Woods, everyone knew Paul and clamored to be near him as he turned any workbench project into a gathering. He will be so very missed zipping around on his scooter, or meeting up for coffee and pastries, watering his garden, and sweeping up the leaves. His attitude was always positive, and he never felt there was a problem that could not be solved. Paul was very loved. A Celebration of Life will be held to honor Paul on Friday, March 18, 2022 at 10:00 am to 12:15 pm at the 19 Restaurant, 24122 Moulton Parkway, Laguna Woods, CA 92637, Rooms 2 & 3. Dress is casual, mention Melanson Celebration at the gate. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Parkinson’s Foundation, or the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation. Interment will be held later at Notre Dame Cemetery in Worcester, MA and will be private.