Paul Roy Ricciardi, 91, a 63-year resident of Burlington, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7th, surrounded by the love and comfort of his devoted family.

Born in Somerville, Paul was one of three children of the late Paul and Anna (Querze) Ricciardi. He was raised and educated in Somerville and was a proud graduate of Somerville High School's class of 1955. It was there that he met the love of his life, Claire Flynn. Two years after their first date, the two were married, beginning a remarkable love story that would span more than 70 years together. Their marriage was built on unwavering love, laughter, loyalty, and family, and together they raised two beloved sons who completed their family.

Paul dedicated his entire professional career to Polaroid, where he worked as a facilities manager until his retirement. He was admired for his incredible work ethic and took immense pride in the fact that he never called in sick throughout his entire career. Prior to Polaroid, he worked for the Airforce National Guard. To his family, however, his greatest accomplishment was always being present. Whether attending sporting events, offering understanding and encouragement, or simply being there when needed most, Paul was the definition of a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Family was the center of Paul's life, and some of his happiest moments were spent creating treasured memories with those he loved most. He especially enjoyed holiday gatherings, family cruises, trips to Walt Disney World, cheering during Super Bowls together, vacations to Aruba, making homemade tortellini with family members, and visiting his favorite place, Newfound Lake.

Paul also loved testing his luck with a scratch ticket or two. Though he never hit a big jackpot, those who knew him would agree he already had the greatest prize imaginable in the love he gave and received from his family. Fly fishing was another lifelong passion that connected generations of the Ricciardi family. Paul first learned beside his father, later shared the pastime with his sons, and eventually with his grandsons, creating lasting traditions and memories along the way.

Known affectionately as "Nono," Paul will be fondly remembered for his playful jokes, warm smile, and the special "Ricciardi Specials" ice cream treats he loved making at the family's Burlington home. He and Claire were also cherished fixtures at the Burlington Council on Aging and recently received recognition as the longest married couple.

Paul was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, where he was honored as Knight of the Year in 1972. He also served as an Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 103 and took tremendous pride in his two sons earning the rank of Eagle Scout.

Above all else, Paul's life was defined by love, love for his wife, his family, his traditions, and the simple moments that brought everyone together.

In addition to his parents Paul was predeceased by his siblings, Robert Ricciardi and Marilyn McCann.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Claire Ricciardi of Burlington, their sons, Bob Ricciardi and his wife Kathy of Dracut, and Jimmy Ricciardi and his wife Mary of Norfolk, MA, his beloved grandchildren, Stephanie and her husband Gavin, Nicole and her husband Vasya, Bobby and his wife Jordan, Dana and her husband Jack, Leah and her husband Joe, Jillian and her husband Tyler, and Jake and his wife Elianna, great grandchildren, Brooklynn, Leena, Braden, Izzy, Rocky, Isla, Isaiah, Owen and Evelyn as well as several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visitation on Tuesday, May 12th from 10 am until 11:30 am at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., Burlington.  His Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00 pm at St. Margaret's Church, 111 Winn St., Burlington.  Burial will immediately follow at Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington.  Contributions in his memory may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research https://give.michaeljfox.org/give/421686/#!/donation/checkout