With hearts full of love and gratitude, we remember the life of Paul Catalinotto, who passed peacefully at home on October 20, 2025, surrounded by his wife, children, and family. After a courageous 32-month battle with glioblastoma, Paul is finally at rest, free from pain, embraced by peace, and reunited with his loved ones in Heaven.
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana on September 26, 1974, Paul grew up with a big heart and an even bigger personality. In 1987, his family moved to California, where Paul’s story continued to unfold, full of laughter, strength, and moments that left an imprint on everyone who knew him.
Paul was known affectionately, by his wife, as “Bear.” At first glance, he could seem intimidating, but those who truly knew him understood why that name fit so well. He simply loved with strength, warmth, and loyalty the size fit of a bear. He gave of himself completely, protecting, supporting, and caring for those around him with everything he had.
He was the beloved husband of Paola, and proud father to Kaitlynn (21), Sofia (11), and Vinny (7). A devoted husband, father, uncle, and friend, Paul’s presence filled every room he entered and every heart he touched.
Paul’s passions reflected his joyful and competitive spirit. He loved bowling and proudly bowled more than a few perfect 300 games. A devoted Saints and LSU fan, he found joy in every season, every win, and every gathering with family and friends that gave him an excuse to cook his famous BBQ shrimp. He was also an avid collector of sports and wrestling memorabilia, preserving moments of games, players, and wrestlers he loved most.
Paul is preceded in death by his parents, Jolie and Bruce Nichols, and Gary Catalinotto Sr., as well as his son, Christian Joseph Catalinotto.
Though his earthly fight has ended, Paul’s love and laughter will continue to echo in the lives of those he leaves behind. His strength, humor, and enormous heart will be remembered always and his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now resting peacefully, whole again, surrounded by the love of those who went before him.
Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
So sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Paul as a young boy who would come to visit with Jolie and Bruce. He was the same age as my oldest son and they were very mischievous. One time they shot a firecracker off in my moms living room. My prayers to all his family May he rest in peace
The world needs more people like you. Loving caring and there no matter the circumstances.
True friends come along very seldomly and should be cherished. I’ve cherished our friendship for the last 20 years even though we weren’t as close as we once were. Rest easy brother, you are and will always be missed.
Paul, my son-in-law, a good man with a big heart like him, I will always remember him, a good husband, a good father. God have him by his side, where he deserves to be. You will always be in our hearts. Fly high, dear Paul. We will see each other again someday.
My little big brother,
WOW!!! Somebody pinch me Please… My heart hurts to its core!! My soul aches. I think about what I want to say – I cry (then repeat) the process for hours. This truly has been the hardest week of my life:( Totally devastated!!! Just when I feel like there are no more tears, the tears come flowing down. Blessed that GOD picked me to be your sister. Paul, you were a magnet, people were drawn to you. Paul could talk to anyone, about any topic, sports would be first but never afraid to speak your mind, what was on your mind came out your mouth, as raw as it sounds. Paul, your personality consisted of funny sarcasm at the same time & stubborn. No one ever had to read between the lines. Just one of your qualities!
Paul moved to California in 1987, so the majority of his teenage years he grew up 3000 miles away from Louisiana. Away from Dad, Gary & me. Leaving the holidays and summer’s in Louisiana. Whatever peeked your interest, you put your heart and soul into what you wanted to accomplish. You had such an amazing collection of sports memorabilia from every sport. At one point you could have opened your own museum to showcase your amazing collection in which a lot of those items were signed by the players.
Let’s talk about the NFL. Yes, the Saints, didn’t matter who they were playing, he was
supporting the Saints. When the Saints & 49ers played against each other showed his support by always wearing the Black & Gold! Paul, you got into bowling, you became a great bowler. You’ve bowled quite a few 298,299, & 300 games. Winning rings,watches, & trophies. You blew my socks off my feet when I first saw you bowl. Definitely should have been a pro bowler. Your peers looked up to you and admired the skill and technique you performed when you bowled.
Paul, you were so lucky, I can remember when you put money in the poker machines. You would win, and I”m not talking $20.00 bucks, it would be a few hundred dollars. I swear, I never had that kinda luck. It seems as though no matter what you touched it was golden. You were very successful at all of your sales jobs from Coors, Snapple, AT&T, Government Phones. Let’s touch a little on your emotional side, you were a big guy. Not too many people knew that about you. I know exactly why Paola called you bear! It fits perfectly! I’d say to myself, when GOD made you he threw that mold away. But, that’s not true, you have 3 beautiful children. All very different, but all have a little of you that they will carry with them throughout this life. You instilled great values, taught them to be respectful and kind. Vinny’s demeanor is a carbon copy of you with his thought process as well as the things that he says. Fifi is head strong, but powerful she has a strong will about herself. KK, she’s so sweet & smart and adored the hell outta you. I know you’re proud of all three of your children as they were so lucky to have you as their father. I know you loved your whole family with your heart and soul. You and Todd grew up together and have always stayed in touch with each other. George was like another brother, the bond that you too shared was a rare find. He was at your side every step of the way through this illness, the godfather to all of your children which he loved dearly. Julie, can’t say enough about your strength and determination in understanding this horrible disease. The research, doctor’s appointments and pure dedication. She loved you like a brother and helped Paolo like a true sister. It gives me great comfort that you had such a great support system. I know that you were forever grateful for those two, the love and bond that all four of y’all shared no one could tear that apart. Your in-laws moved to Alabama to help support your family and made things a lot easier on Paola as she had many roles she had to juggle. From wife, to mother, to caretaker kudos to you Paola. Thank you for loving him so much! Y’all had a very special love for each other and it showed everyday. You truly made him the happiest man on earth. Paul, you’re gone from this earth, but you’ve left a legacy that will live on! You are now reunited with Christian. Keep looking down on us all. I love you always till we meet again my little big brother you will forever be in my heart! 💔💙
It was such a blessing to know Paul. He was a wonder father, with so much kindness and love in his heart. He always welcomed me into his home and made me feel like part of the family. I will always cherish the memories of spending time together at Thanksgiving and on our trips to New Orleans. I know he’s in heaven now, free from pain and suffering, and will one day be reunited with his soulmate, P, and his beautiful children, family and friends. We will miss you, Paul. Your warm and gentle spirit will never be forgotten. ❤️