Paula Vivian Schell

Paula Vivian Schell, 82, of Watertown , New York, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2025, at Samaritan Medical Center following a brief battle with acute myeloid leukemia.

She was born on December 31, 1942, in Watertown, New York, the daughter of Harry J. and Vivian A. (Stevens) Wenk. Paula graduated from Indian River Central School in 1959 and later attended the Watertown School of Commerce.

Early in her career, Paula was employed by the Agricultural Insurance Company and Kinney Drugs. In the fall of 1978, she was appointed Town Clerk for the Town of Pamelia, a role she proudly held until her retirement in 2010.

She married Jerry R Schell on October 14, 1961 at the Theresa Presbyterian Church. She and her husband have resided on the family farm since 1961.

Paula enjoyed reading, doing puzzles, gardening, watching birds—especially cardinals, orioles, bluebirds, and hummingbirds—and card nights with her dear friend, Ella Marie Fults. One of her greatest joys in life was having her family gathered around her and attending her grandchildren’s many activities.

Paula is survived by her beloved husband of 63 years, Jerry R. Schell; her three children: Jerry S. (Barbara) Schell of Watertown, NY, Kelly (Craig) Sherbino of Theresa, NY, and Sue Ann Lozano and her significant other Mark Burger of Brewerton, NY; five grandchildren: Garrett Schell, Kali Sherbino, Jared Lozano, Adam Schell, and Noelle Burger; and a sister, Mary E.Wenk of Evans Mills, NY.

She was predeceased by her parents; two brothers, John H. Wenk and Donald Wenk (who died in infancy); and a sister, Margaret E. Smith.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, April 13, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Hart & Bruce Funeral Home. Burial will take place at the convenience of the family in Parish Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Paula’s memory may be made to the Evans Mills Volunteer Ambulance Squad or to a local food pantry of your choice.

Online condolences may be shared at www.hartandbrucefh.com

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