Paul E. Osborne's Obituary
Paul E. Osborne, age 94, of Oberlin, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 24, 2025, under the care of New Life Hospice.
He was born on July 16, 1931, in Loudon, New Hampshire, to Richard C. and Ethel (nee Hodgdon) Osborne. Paul proudly served his country in the United States Navy, enlisting on June 3, 1949, in Manchester, New Hampshire, and receiving his honorable discharge on March 31, 1955, in Boston, Massachusetts.
Following his military service, Paul built a long and respected career as a pile driver and deep-water diver with the Millwright-Pile Driver Local 1090, he joined the Union on September 3, 1954, and he retired on August 1, 1993. He was an Honorary Member with 71 years of service. Known for his precision, skill, and work ethic, he took great pride in his craft. Paul was admired not only for his expertise but also for his mentorship—teaching and inspiring many who worked alongside him, and maintaining those friendships throughout his life.
Outside of work, Paul enjoyed farming his property, tending to his garden, and working on his tractors. A man of curiosity and intellect, he was an avid reader, especially of history books. He had a deep affection for his three cats, who were constant companions. Paul will be remembered as a man of strong character, integrity, and kindness—a true gentleman. His family meant everything to him, and he took great joy in being a positive influence in their lives and education.
He is survived by his daughters, Crystal Soto and Cheryl Osborne; grandchildren, Alexander (Breanna) Soto of Lorain, Robert (Kaitlyn) McManus of New Hampshire, and Ryan (Nicole) McManus of New Hampshire; and great-grandchildren, Rosalie and Sophia Soto, and Gabriella, Cole, Hunter, and Hadley McManus.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Louise, in 2014; his son, Lance Edwin McManus; his parents, Richard and Ethel Osborne; and his brother, Richard H. Osborne.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst. Closing prayers will be said on Thursday, November 6th, at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral center, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Parish, 3655 Oberlin Avenue, Lorain. Rev. Father Craig Hovanec, Pastor, will officiate. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Lorain.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.dovinreberjones.com.
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