Korean War Veteran and Longtime Ellicottville Resident Paul Barlow Passes at 93

Barlow was remembered for his love of family, skiing, and the Buffalo Bills

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:23am

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Paul Edward Barlow, a 93-year-old Korean War veteran, carpenter, and longtime resident of Ellicottville, New York, passed away peacefully at his home on January 27, 2026. Barlow was married to his 'love of his life' Maureen Shanahan and was an avid outdoorsman, skier, and Buffalo Bills fan.

Why it matters

Barlow's passing marks the loss of a beloved community member in Ellicottville, a small town in western New York known for its ski resorts and outdoor recreation. As a Korean War veteran, carpenter, and lifelong Bills fan, Barlow embodied the spirit of the region and will be remembered fondly by his family, friends, and neighbors.

The details

Barlow was born in Buffalo, New York in 1933 and graduated from Kensington High School in 1951. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, working stateside. Barlow was a carpenter by trade and belonged to the Carpenter's Local 276 in Buffalo, working for various contractors throughout western New York. He was a longtime member of the Ellicottville American Legion Post 659 and the Lederhosen Ski Club, where he enjoyed skiing. Barlow was also a devoted Buffalo Bills fan, holding season tickets at the old Rock Pile and Rich Stadium.

  • Barlow was born on January 20, 1933 in Buffalo, New York.
  • He graduated from Kensington High School in 1951.
  • Barlow served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
  • He married Maureen Shanahan on July 3, 1971 in South Buffalo.
  • Barlow passed away peacefully at his Ellicottville home on January 27, 2026.

The players

Paul Edward Barlow

A 93-year-old Korean War veteran, carpenter, and longtime resident of Ellicottville, New York who passed away on January 27, 2026.

Maureen Shanahan

Barlow's wife, whom he referred to as 'the love of his life'.

Kristina Coolidge

Barlow's daughter who lives in Ellicottville.

Jonathan Barlow

Barlow's son who lives in Humphrey, New York.

Mary Lou Warren

Barlow's sister who lives in Buffalo, New York.

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What’s next

A memorial mass will be held for Barlow on February 7, 2026 at Holy Name of Mary RC Church in Ellicottville, with full military honors conducted by the Ellicottville American Legion Post 659. Barlow will be buried at Holy Cross Cemetery following the service.

The takeaway

Paul Barlow's life exemplified the values and spirit of the Ellicottville community - a love of family, the outdoors, and local sports teams like the Buffalo Bills. His passing marks the end of an era for this small town, but his memory will live on through the family, friends, and neighbors whose lives he touched.