Sadly, Paul passed away on May 25, 2025 at 88 years young with his family by his side. He was a quiet, humble, much-loved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Throughout his life, Paul was a kind and generous man who touched the lives of many, always quietly helping but never wanting to be in the spotlight.
Paul was born in Rockford, Illinois to Harry and Clara Larson. After graduating from East Rockford High, he boarded a train to Boston to study at MIT. Upon graduation in 1954 he moved to Houston, Texas for two years to work for Humble Oil. There, he met the love of his life, Irene. The day after they married 64 years ago, they left for Delaware to begin their fun-filled life’s journey. Paul attended the University of Delaware graduate program, earning a PhD in Chemical Engineering. Upon graduation in 1965, their journey continued with DuPont. They lived in Buffalo, NY; Clinton, Iowa; Beaumont, TX; Wilmington; Singapore; and then back to Wilmington where he retired after a 34-year career. In retirement, Paul thoroughly enjoyed playing tennis and golf at the DuPont Country Club, as well as taking classes at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his cherished family who will hold him in their hearts forever.
Paul is survived by his wife, Irene; daughter, Lisa Dougherty (John); son, Scott (Mary); grandchildren, Callie Banks (Jon), Sam Dougherty, Sarah Larson and Tom Larson; and great-grandsons, Harry and Miles Banks. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Sharon and Terry Carlson.
Please join us for a celebration of Paul’s life at the DuPont Country Club on Thursday, June 19, from 3-6 PM. If you wish to make a donation in Paul’s memory, please consider giving to the Nativity Preparatory School Scholarship fund. Their address is 1515 Linden St., Wilmington, DE 19805. Donations can also be made at www.nativitywilmington.org.
