Lester Otis Paul

PITTSTON – Lester Otis Paul passed away on July 12, 2021 at the age of 79 at the Veterans Administration Center at Togus.

Lester was born in Hallowell, Maine in 1942, the son of John Fuller Paul, Sr., and Celia Fitzsimmons. He attended local schools and then joined the United States Army gaining the rank of Sergeant First Class. Lester married the love his life, Linda Mary Hawes of Augusta on June 4, 1968 in the Baptist Church in Hallowell. After their wedding, Lester returned to his posting in Italy with his wife joining him there shortly thereafter.

Lester was a highly-decorated veteran who served his country proudly for 33 years. He was the recipient of many decorations, medals and honors during his years of service. He was on active duty in Italy, Germany, Korea and Vietnam, where he was wounded. Lester was awarded, among many other commendations, the Purple Heart, the Silver Star and a medal recognizing his exceptional meritorious service. Lester was a quiet man who never talked or boasted about his military activities or achievements.

After retirement, Lester and Linda spent a great deal of time pursuing their interests of deep sea fishing and navigating Maine waters on their boat named “Lucky.” They also enjoyed fixing and restoring old cars and exploring the backroads of Maine. Lester loved recording and listening to all types of music especially country. One of his favorite pastimes was visiting and playing Yahtzee with his mother-in-law, Lauretta “Mabel” Hawes, who predeceased him.

Many other interests kept Lester busy and active. He enjoyed running, playing cribbage, woodworking, restoring furniture and fixing anything in need, especially motors. He had a special place in his heart for animals, their care and wellbeing.

Lester is survived by his wife of 53 years, Linda Hawes Paul; a brother, Richard Paul; three sisters, Alicia Jellison, Mary Douin, and Thelma Davis; as well as many extended family members. Lester was predeceased by his parents, John Fuller Paul, Sr. and Celia Fitzsimmons Paul, and his siblings, Edward, Gordon, John and Jane Paul.

On August 2, 2021, Lester will be laid to rest at 12:00 noon with a graveside service including military honors to be held at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Augusta. This service is open to anyone wishing to attend. Visiting hours will be in the Knowlton-Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St. Augusta on Thursday, July 15, 2021 from 12:00 – 2:00 PM.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta where memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers,

contributions in Lester’s

honor may be sent to the:

Kennebec Valley

Humane Society

Pet Haven Lane

Augusta, ME 04330 or to

a favorite food bank