FORESTVILLE - Paul "Bummy" A. Baumgarden, 66, of Lodi Street, Forestville, passed away quietly Tuesday, July 19th, at Buffalo General Hospital with family members at his side. Paul faced his death as he faced his life - with courage. He was our hero.
He was born in Fall River, MA on April 19, 1945, the son of the late Arthur J. and Maria-Louisa Baumgarden. At a very young age, his family returned to West Seneca and he graduated from West Seneca West High School, Class of 1963.
In 1965 he enlisted in the US Navy and served our country for 6 years. During that time, he was aboard the USS Guadalcanal - the Primary Recovery Ship for Apollo 9 (the first space test flight of the Lunar Module). He also received the National Defense Service Medal and the Navy Good Conduct Medal. After being honorably discharged from the Navy, he worked alongside his father & grandfather at National Pattern Works in Buffalo, he then worked for Delavan Electronics in East Aurora and then worked for MOOG, Inc. in East Aurora, where he retired from in 2004, as a machinist and was a proud member of the Aero-Space Division, which was responsible for making parts for the NASA Space Shuttles, USAF Stealth Aircraft and the Scud Missiles during Desert Storm.
After retiring due to illness, he thoroughly enjoyed his home life in Forestville, spending time with his family and his dogs. He spent his days keeping in touch with family across the country and old friends via Facebook and email. Mr. Baumgarden found a love for baking and was deemed "The Muffin Man" by his family. Also, lovingly named "The Energizer Bunny" by his children, for the many times he entered the hospital and returned home after facing certain death.
A firm believer in organ donation, he was able to give the gift of sight to two recipients.