Paul J. Stutzman passed away on Sunday, December 10, 2017 at Raritan Bay Medical Center, Perth Amboy Division. He was 72 years old.

Born in Elizabeth, he resided in Avenel before moving to Port Reading 47 years ago.

Paul was a Union Representative with the United Auto Workers Union Local 595 at the General Motors plant in Linden for 31 years before retiring in 2007. He was also previously employed as a truck driver with Wayne Bright Steel Service and Yellow Freight.

Paul was a member of the Raritan Bay Anglers Club and a former volunteer with Avenel Fire Company #1.

Predeceased by his parents, Estelle and Earl Stutzman and a brother, Earl Stutzman, Jr., Paul is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Lorraine Latshaw Stutzman; daughter, Stacie Lynn Mlodgenski and husband, Jimmy, of Brick; grandson, Paul Joseph Mlodgenski; sisters, Joan Brezanski of Toms River and Charlotte Kreie of Florence, Oregon; brother, Arthur Stutzman, of Brick; and several nieces and nephews.

Upon his passing, Paul was surely greeted in his journey by his constant and ardent canine companion, "Buttons", who has unquestionably been pacing the Rainbow Bridge in fervent anticipation of his master's arrival, and an eternity of sharing grilled hot dogs.

A devoted man with an incredibly kind and generous heart, Paul often tirelessly worked two jobs without complaint, supporting not only his own family, but any extended family member in a moment of need. The door to Paul's home was always open, should you be seeking a tool, cup of coffee, meal, or simply to spend some time in his good humor and great company. Paul treated neighbors as friends, and all friends as family. Upon retiring, he spent much of his time completing many small, daily tasks for those around him that will surely be missed.

A New York Yankees fan, Paul was also an avid boater and fisherman. When not near the water, he would undoubtedly be found meticulously cleaning and organizing his fishing equipment, bemoaning any cold day that kept him inside, and a rod and reel out of his hand.

However, Paul's greatest passion in life was the incredible bond he shared with his namesake, grandson, Paul Joseph. He dedicated himself to cultivating a strong and meaningful relationship between them, his unending efforts enabling him to become a true second father to Paulie. The two spent countless hours boating upon the "Pop Pop and Paulie", fishing, swimming and simply enjoying their time spent together. Paul was committed to teaching Paulie at every opportunity, and eagerly visited as often as possible. With nearly every phone call, he'd pour over the school calendar in anticipation of Paulie spending nights and weekends with he and Lorraine. He was incredibly proud of the young man Paulie has become, and of his achievements and dedication to service at Christian Brothers Academy in particular. His deep love and affection for Paulie was evident to all who knew him. Paulie was truly the apple of Paul's eye, the biggest fish in his sea.

Visitation for family and friends will be on Friday, December 15, 2017 from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Costello-Greiner Funeral Home (costello-greiner.com), 44 Green Street, Woodbridge. Funeral services will be on Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. from the funeral home. A Mass of Resurrection will follow at 9:30 a.m. at Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Port Reading. Cremation will be private.

Memorial contributions to Holiday Express (holidayexpress.org), 968 Shrewsbury Avenue, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724 in Paul's memory would be greatly appreciated by his family.