Paul J. Marino, 65, a longtime resident of Higganum, died at Middlesex Hospital, after a long and courageous battle with lung disease. He recently resided at Wadsworth Glen Rehab Center in Middletown.

He was born in Middletown, the son of the late Emanuel S. and Emily (Helenek) Marino. Prior to his retirement, Paul worked at Larry's Auto Service in Higganum. Paul was devoted to his family, and cherished his friends, many of whom he knew all his life. Paul was kind to all and went out of his way to help people if he could. He had a mild manner about him which made people at ease.

He will be deeply missed.

Paul is survived by his siblings, Maryann Smith and her husband Randy of East Haddam; Dianne Nocera and her husband Louis of East Hampton; Joseph Marino and his wife Sherrie of Bedford, VA; and Carol Marino of Middletown; nieces and nephews, Stephen Smith (Kimberly), Sarah Onofrio (Peter), Louis Nocera, Jr., Caroline Nocera, and Michaela Holder; and three grand nephews, Ushai Onofrio, Brody Holder, and Henry Smith, and a grand niece, Aliya Onofrio. Also, his uncle, Joseph Marino and his wife Dianna of Old Saybrook, and numerous cousins and many good friends. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Amelia.

The Funeral Liturgy will be held Thursday (Feb. 16th) at 10 a.m. at St. Peter Church, Higganum. Burial will follow at St. Sebastian Cemetery, Middlefield. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St. Middletown. Those who wish may send memorial contributions to an animal shelter of their choice. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.