In Memoriam: Longtime Fair Havenite, RFH’s First Hockey Coach, Paul Pritchard, 89

Longtime Fair Havenite, Paul Pritchard, passed away peacefully at his Fair Haven home on July 13, surrounded by family. He was 89.

“Known for his great storytelling and quick, dry unforgettable sense of humor, Paul loved the competition and camaraderie of sports — golf, platform tennis, and, especially, skiing. He coached his son’s hockey teams through their youth and was the first hockey coach at RFH. There was always a new game — duplicate bridge, sudoku puzzles, and crossword puzzles. Then there was DANCE!!! Paul loved to ‘cut a rug.’ He was always the first on the dance floor and the last to leave. Paul`s long standing memberships in Rumson Country Club (where he served on the board of governors) and Sea Bright Beach Club enabled him and Pat to enjoy many lasting friendships. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.”
Loved ones of Paul Pritchard in his obituary

Paul was born in Buffalo NY on April 21, 1935 to Elmer and Pauline Pritchard. He was a graduate of Kenmore High School and studied at Penn State University, graduating in 1958.

While at Penn State, Paul took his first job at Fuller Brush selling products door to door. “He believed this was the most influential job experience he ever had as it taught him a relentless work ethic, a drive to sell and succeed, and humility as he dealt with many slamming doors. His toughest sale was selling a wet mop to a woman with a dirt floor.

“Motivated by success and improving his family’s lives, Paul switched from various jobs and moved from Marblehead MA to Geneva Il and finally stopped in Fair Haven. After years of hard work and through a strong entrepreneurial drive, Paul took a huge financial risk and started Toll Compaction, a chemical manufacturing company. He successfully grew the business to a level allowing his two sons to take over so he could start to enjoy his retirement. Paul epitomized the American Dream.”
family of Paul Pritchard

Paul was predeceased by his three siblings and son, Frank.

He is survived by: his wife of 65 years, Pat (the love of his life and best friend, so he used to say); sons, Tyson (spouse, Seana), and Rodney; his five grandchildren, to whom he took great pride and pleasure, Amie and Dylan, Brett and Brynn, and Charlotte Nagy.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Fair Haven Police Department, Fire Department or First Aid Squad. There will be a celebration of life at a later date.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via Thompson Memorial Home