Paul R. Bara

Paul R. Bara, 79, of Greeley, PA, a devoted husband, loving father, and esteemed professional passed away peacefully Saturday, April 5, 2025, in his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was the son of the late Joseph J. Bara and Yolanda Quintana Bara of Wampum, PA. He was born in Newcastle, PA on March 16, 1946, and was a 1964 graduate of Mohawk High School. He was a star athlete in basketball and baseball and played with the likes of Richie Allen and Don Hennon. Paul is survived by his wife of 44 years, Arlene Hampe Bara, the love of his life, from New Brighton, PA, their beautiful daughter, Vanessa Mae Mosher, and her husband, Neil, of Hawley, PA, and their four children: Maximus H., Ilaria H., Raegan M., and Avery M., a daughter, Elizabeth Nelson, (Randy) of Florida, from a previous marriage, and their children: Lydia Nelson and Randy Nelson.

Paul was the oldest of four children and is survived by his sister, Kathleen, (Danny) Snyder Lowellville, Ohio, his brother, Donald (Arlene) Wampum PA, and sister, Jane Bara-Bright, of Fort Lauderdale.

In addition, Paul is survived by four nieces and five nephews: Brett Bara Fried, Jessica Jewell Lalley, Casey Murray Conkle, Brittany Hampe Forrer, Rocco Bara, Donald Bara, Aaron Snyder, Craig Murray, and George P Hampe. Paul is survived also by many beloved cousins and great nieces and nephews.

Paul received his electrical engineering degree from Allegheny Technical Institute of Pittsburgh, PA in 1966, then went to work for Westinghouse Defense and Space Center where he was put on loan to the Federal Government to work in Havelock, North Carolina and Andros Island of the Bahamas. Paul possessed top-secret clearance along with being assigned armed guards while he worked on the F4 Phantom Jets and Aug 10 Radar Systems during the Vietnam War. He played a key role in the development and operation of Westinghouse‘s nuclear power systems. He held various managerial and engineering positions overseeing teams that were responsible for large scale, technological advancements. Paul worked on projects that extended Westinghouse’s reach beyond the US helping to secure contracts for nuclear power plants and other energy infrastructure in countries around the world. Paul’s expertise in engineering contributed to the growth of high-tech electronic projects. Paul was a key figure in the development of Aug 10 radar systems used for surveillance targeting and missile defense which were crucial for military defense during the Cold War. His expertise in this area helped protect national security and advance technological capabilities. He often spoke about his experiences instructing the military in classroom settings.

Paul's life was a remarkable journey of innovation, wisdom, and unwavering faith that left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Paul played a pivotal role in the development of nuclear power technologies, contributing significantly to the advancement of nuclear reactors and steam generators. His work not only helped shape the future of energy but also ensured the safety and efficiency of nuclear power plants around the world.

In addition to his contributions with Westinghouse, Paul’s electrical engineering expertise was employed by the Babcock and Wilcox Steel Mill in Beaver County. He performed quality control engineering for Kolmar Laboratories in Port Jervis, New York. Paul also conducted himself as Head of Security for the Pine Forest Camps entity in the Pocono Mountains which led to facilitating the Pennsylvania State Police in Security details where needed. Paul received his certificate as Fire Police for his local fire department and was a member of the Free Masons.

But beyond his professional accomplishments, Paul was a man of profound faith and wisdom. His home was filled with laughter and stories, as Paul had a gift for storytelling that captivated all who listened. Whether sharing tales from his past or imparting life lessons, his words carried a depth that resonated with everyone.

Faith was the cornerstone of Paul's life. He lived his beliefs with humility and grace. His unshakable faith guided him through life's challenges and joys, serving as a source of strength and inspiration for others.

Paul's wisdom was sought after by many-friends, family, and colleagues alike-who valued his thoughtful counsel and ability to see the bigger picture. His presence was a blessing, and he brought peace and warmth to every room he entered. Even in his later years, Paul remained active in his community, volunteering and participating in charitable activities. He was the Master Chef for the Annual Senior Citizens’ Dinner Theater for 15 years at which he not only volunteered his time but also donated pork and beef that he raised on his farm. His generosity and willingness to help others made him a beloved figure wherever he went. He always enjoyed a good joke and pranking others.

Paul’s favorite pastimes included fishing, boating, hunting, camping, traveling, motorcycling, stained-glass making, playing the harmonica, raising farm animals, and cooking.

As we remember Paul R. Bara, we celebrate a life that was not only marked by professional excellence but also by personal warmth and spiritual depth. His legacy lives on in the technologies that power the world, the lives he touched, and in the love, he shared so generously. Though he is no longer with us, his light continues to shine brightly through the stories shared, the lessons passed down, and the countless lives he illuminated. Paul had a rare gift; he made everyone feel seen, valued, and inspired.

Visitation will be at the Marshall Funeral Home in Wampum, PA on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 11-1:00 with Memorial Blessing Service at 1:00.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at his residence at 112 Mustang Road, Greeley, PA on June 14, 2025, 1:00-4:00.

Online condolences may be sent to marshallfh.com