January 18, 1943 ~ January 18, 2026
Paul Joseph Cempa passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, surrounded by love. He was an extraordinary husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and son, whose life was defined by devotion, hard work, and kindness.
A proud United States Navy veteran, Paul served his country with honor before dedicating his professional life to a long and successful career as a stationary engineer. His strong work ethic, integrity, and problem-solving spirit were evident in everything he did.
Paul was also deeply committed to giving back. He believed strongly in supporting his community and helping whenever and wherever he could. He loved to keep busy, stay active, and put his time and energy into meaningful causes. A devoted and active member of Gold Star Post 1365, Paul proudly served as Vice Commander and truly enjoyed being part of the post, dedicating countless hours to its mission and fellowship.
Beyond his career, service, and community involvement, Paul was a joyful and curious soul. He loved traveling, experiencing new places, and making memories along the way. His genuine happiness and warmth drew people in, and he was truly loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Above all else, family meant everything to Paul. He was a steady presence, a source of wisdom, and a pillar of love and support. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the stories he shared, and the countless lives he touched.
A Celebration of Life will be held on January 28, 2026, at Cherubini-McInerney Funeral Home from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM. A Mass service will follow on January 29, 2026.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting a donation in Paul’s name to either Wounded Warrior Project or Tunnels To Towers.
1289 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
4:30pm - 8:30pm 
8 thoughts on “Paul Cempa”
Condolences to the Cempa Family. Remember Jesus gives mourners hope beyond the grave. Catholic faith teaches that those who die in Christ are immediately ushered into the presence of God (Luke 23:43; 2 Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:23). Peace be with you.
Rest in Peace to everyone’s Uncle Paul. He truly was a kind soul and gentleman. Chris and myself loved when we would see him at Thomas and Patricia’s house. We enjoyed hearing his stories about life and when he would talk about his Grandchildren and especially his Great grandchildren. He truly will be missed.
With love,
Janie & Chris Swincicki
Sincerest sympathy and condolences for the Cempa family for the loss of Paul. May he Rest In Eternal Peace. We are sorrowful for the loss of our American Legion Brother who was always on hand to assist at all Post functions and activities.
Rest in heavenly peace my friend and neighbor ..
My deepest condolences to your family..
I will miss our conversation when you visited the dealership .
See you someday on the other side .
Thank you for your service to our country .
Paulie…you were such a good friend and a companion. We had many good times together. You will be deeply missed. You made events fun. We loved to hear you stories about your Navy days, your family, your career and your current job at the hospital. You gave everything you did your all.
You will be greatly missed. You were such a good friend and a companion. We had many good times together. You had enjoyable stories to tell. There is a place in heaven for you.
To the Cempa family-
On behalf of myself being a new transferee legionnaire to Gold Star American Legion Post 1365/Staten Island, NY, I am saddened to learn of the passing of Post Vice Commander, Paul Cempa. An honorable man I was fortunate to have met and was a very welcoming legionnaire, amongst others, to the post I now call home. May Paul’s service to his family, community, state and nation be rewarded in life everlasting. For God and Country, my condolences to the Cempa family-
David Pelletier
PUFL/NY-1365
My deepest condolences to the Cempa and Leonardi families on the sudden and unexpected death of your loved one.
Paulie was truly the best and I am so thankful to have known him for 45 years., since my close friendship with his step daughter, Gina. He was a kind, caring, giving and loving man. I will always treasure my time spent with Paulie, especially in AC and cruises to Bermuda in 2018 and most recently in Sept 2025.
I enjoyed his company and loved him dearly. He will greatly missed by so many.
May he rest in peace in God’s heavenly kingdom.