Paul W. McKechnie

On April 5th, 2026, Paul William McKechnie of Hamden, Connecticut, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer, surrounded by family and friends. For more than 25 years, Paul poured his heart and soul into Atlantic Millwork, a business he didn’t simply own, but lived. Craftsmanship, care, and pride defined everything he built, qualities that mirrored the way he approached life itself. In the last ten years, that same dedication extended to the Mohawk Mountain Ski Patrol, where he served with humility, generosity, and calm assurance. Though he took pride in both roles, Paul never considered either one “work.” When you love what you do, and the people you do it alongside, it simply becomes part of who you are. Paul found joy on the slopes, on clear weekends in his woodlot chopping wood, and in the quiet companionship of his beloved dog, Willie, who was rarely far from his side. These simple rituals grounded him, offering moments of reflection, warmth, and peace. A natural connector, Paul brought people together and maintained friendships that spanned decades and distance. Whether through work, service, skiing, or long‑standing relationships, he created community wherever he went. He was loyal, steady, and deeply present—someone people could count on, always. Above all else, Paul was a loving father to Peyton (Ashley), Caroline (Patrick), and Mariah (Sean). He took immense pride in the lives they built, offering quiet guidance, unwavering support, and unconditional love. He was also a proud grandfather to Quinn, Colby, Grayson, Hoyt, Sloane, Noah, Gemma, and Runa, each of whom brought him endless joy. He is survived by his siblings, David McKechnie (Kathy), Nancy Ager (Rob) and Susan McKechnie (Bruce). Paul will be remembered for his craftsmanship, his service, his friendships, and the love he gave so freely. His presence will be missed deeply, but his legacy lives on through the people he loved, the work he cherished, and the many lives he brought together. The family kindly requests no flowers be sent to the service or Paul's residence. Please consider making a donation, in Paul's name, to Warrior Sailing, a non-profit near and dear to his heart or to the Smilow Cancer Hospital, where he received, and raved about, his caregiving at Yale New Haven Hospital. Funeral services will be Thursday April 30, at 12 noon in St. Thomas Episcopal Church 830 Whitney Ave. New Haven.

Paul W. McKechnie

August 7, 1959 - April 5, 2026