In Loving Memory of Paul Rafanello
A Life of Dedication, Service, Love, and Extraordinary Courage
WARWICK, NY - Paul Rafanello, a respected Certified Public Accountant, dedicated community member, beloved husband, and a man of extraordinary strength and determination, passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Westchester Medical Center, following a courageous three-year battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Born in Mineola, NY, on September 18, 1965, Paul was the son of Anthony and Phyllis (nee Faulstick) Rafanello.
Paul was a familiar and respected presence in the Warwick community, where he built a successful career devoted to helping individuals and small businesses achieve financial stability and success.
In 2004, Paul established his own accounting firm, proudly serving clients throughout Warwick and the surrounding communities. For over two decades, he dedicated himself to his profession, building lasting relationships based on trust, integrity, and genuine care for the people he served. He continued his work until 2023, when his ALS diagnosis forced him into retirement.
For Paul, accounting was never simply about numbers. He took great pride in helping small-business owners navigate challenges, grow their businesses, and pursue their dreams. His passion for supporting local entrepreneurs extended beyond his office through his active involvement with the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce, where he valued the opportunity to network, build relationships, and contribute to the local business community.
Paul also believed deeply in the power of education and opportunity. As a vice director of Literacy Orange, he supported the organization’s mission of helping individuals develop essential literacy and English-language skills. He found great satisfaction in witnessing others overcome language barriers, gain confidence, and create better opportunities for themselves and their families.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Paul was a man who embraced life’s simple pleasures. Proud of his Italian heritage, he loved preparing delicious Italian meals and sharing his passion for cooking with those around him. He enjoyed discovering restaurants, appreciating good food, and spending meaningful time with family and friends. He was also a devoted New York Yankees fan.
In September 2022, Paul married his beloved wife, Marta, beginning a beautiful chapter of companionship, love, and devotion. Just ten months later, in July 2023, they faced the devastating news of his ALS diagnosis.
Together, Paul and Marta embarked on a journey that would test their strength in unimaginable ways. Throughout his illness, Paul demonstrated an extraordinary will to live. He approached each new challenge with determination, choosing to pursue every possible step and medical intervention that might prolong his life.
Even as ALS progressively took away his physical abilities, it never diminished his fighting spirit. Paul refused to surrender easily, facing each stage of the disease with remarkable bravery and an unwavering desire to remain with the people he loved.
Through every difficult moment, Marta stood faithfully by his side, offering love, care, and companionship. Surrounded by family, Paul continued his courageous fight until his final days.
His journey was a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of love, and the extraordinary lengths a person will go to embrace another day of life.
Paul is survived by his loving wife, Marta; his sister, Donna; his nephew, Alex; his brother-in-law, Michael; his stepdaughters and stepsons; and his beloved cat, Tino, who held a special place in his heart.
He leaves behind not only a legacy of professional excellence and community service but also an unforgettable example of resilience, perseverance, and courage.
Paul will be remembered for the businesses he helped build, the lives he touched, the meals he lovingly prepared, the friendships he cherished, and, above all, his extraordinary determination to live.
Although his battle with ALS has come to an end, his legacy of kindness, dedication, and strength will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Paul's memory to the ALS Association online: https://www.als.org/
Funeral Arrangements
Family, friends, colleagues, and members of the community are invited to gather in remembrance of Paul.
Saturday, November 7, 2026
Visitation and Funeral Service
Lazear-Smith & Vander Plaat Memorial Home
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., service beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Burial Following the Service
Warwick Cemetery, Warwick, New York
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported Paul and Marta throughout his courageous journey.
May Paul finally rest in peace, free from the suffering of ALS, and may his remarkable spirit never be forgotten.