PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Paul Rich, co-founder of Paul Rich and Sons Home Furnishings, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning March 6, 2018, with his family by his side.

Born to Harry G. Rich and Anna (Klein) Rich in New York City on June 18, 1927, Pittsfield became his lifelong home at a very young age. A graduate of Pittsfield High School, Paul earned his Bachelor's degree from Williams College following his service in the army as a medical technician.

The world of retail beckoned and after working alongside his father at the North Street fixtures The Palace News and The Berkshire News, Paul joined his father-in-law and brother-in-law at New England Furniture. In 1983 Paul, his wife Betty and son Tom founded Paul Rich and Sons Home Furnishings in downtown Pittsfield. A success from the start, the business blossomed to become an anchor of North Street occupying an entire city block. Son Matthew Rich brought his talents to the business in the 1990s until his passing. Pam Rich joined the business in 1995 and is now co-owner with her husband Tom.

All who knew Paul experienced a man with incredible curiosity who loved to both talk and listen. He was truly interested in people, remembering details about people's lives that would astound friends and acquaintances. Paul's needs were simple: a burger on the grill, a glass of wine, a book in hand and a fire in the fireplace. Life is good.

Paul loved his family: Betty, his wife of 67 years; his children Tom Rich (Pam) of Pittsfield, Andrew Rich of Portland, Oregon, and Joseph Rich (Skip Paynter) of Easthampton, Mass., and Milan N.Y. But above all, "PaPa" was in awe of his three grandsons: Harry, Jackson and Gabe. He often said, "There is nothing these boys can't do"! He was so impressed by their accomplishments but even more by "What fine people they are.”

Paul was preceded in death by his son Matthew, his brother, Warren, and parents, Harry and Anne.

Funeral notice: Funeral Services will take place Sunday, March 11, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Congregation Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road, Pittsfield, Mass. Burial will follow in Knesset Israel Cemetery, Pecks Road, Pittsfield, Mass.

Please remember Paul's compassion and kind heart by honoring his memory with a contribution to The Christian Center or The Jewish Federation of The Berkshires.