Hatfield, MA – Paul Michael Curran, 81, of Hatfield, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 21, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family and close friends after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Paul was born in Boston on June 2, 1944, to William J. Curran and Eleanor L. (Kyle) Curran. He was the eldest of nine children. He will be forever loved and deeply missed by his devoted wife and soulmate of 51 years, Jean (Harizi) Curran; his son, Eric Curran and his wife Chelsey of Temecula, California; his daughter, Alaina Wilcox and her husband Matt of Hatfield, Massachusetts; his cherished grandchildren, Jake and Kara Wilcox; and his extended family and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his brothers, Dennis and Dick Curran.
Paul’s lifelong passion for automobiles began in childhood and remained with him throughout his life. He worked as a mechanic in the Boston area, where he met the love of his life, Jean, in the early 1970s. They were married in 1974 in Worcester, Massachusetts and built their life together in Western Massachusetts, where they established their home and raised their family, welcoming their son Eric, followed by their daughter Alaina. Paul continued his career as a mechanic and, in 1985, founded Performance Motoring Inc. in Hadley, capturing the local Volvo business. He worked with dedication and pride until his retirement in 2010. Paul found great joy in building and working on cars and was regarded as one of the area’s most skilled Volvo mechanics. Together with his son Eric, he built their first race car, a Volvo 142, beginning a racing journey that brought him immense happiness. While he enjoyed winning many races over the next 20 years, he especially valued the friendships formed along the way. Beyond his work, Paul embraced many interests that reflected his adventurous and thoughtful spirit. He enjoyed hiking, karate, meditation, and tai chi. To celebrate his 60th birthday, he hiked the Long Trail in Vermont with his nephew. He also shared many memorable hikes with his daughter, Alaina and a dedicated group of friends. Paul loved traveling, especially family trips to Sarasota, Florida with his grandchildren, visits to Costa Rica, and time spent in California visiting Eric. Above all, he treasured creating lasting memories with his family. Paul will be remembered for his kind and caring nature, his willingness to help others, and his dedication to family and friends. He was always reaching out to those close to him. Despite the challenges of his illness, he faced life with quiet strength, grace, and dignity, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.
His family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported and cared for Paul during his final days.
Calling Hours will be held on Friday March 6th from 4pm-6pm at the Czelusniak Funeral Home. An In-House service will be held on Saturday March 7th at 10am at the funeral home with burial to follow at Main Street Cemetery in Hatfield.
Please go to Czelusniakfuneralhome.com for online condolences and tribute book.
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