Paulo Cesar DaCruz

Paulo Cesar DaCruz, “Paul”, passed away on August 18, 2023, in Santa Rosa, CA. Paul was born on August 25, 1964, in New Haven, CT, the second child of Herminio and Maria DaCruz. Surviving Paul are his parents and his loving partner, Dana Kern, and her son, Aidan, as well as his siblings, Maria Boice (Kenneth), Regina O’Reilly (Michael), John DaCruz, and David DaCruz, and his nieces, Sarah Boice, Jessica Boice, Melissa Boice, Megan O’Reilly, and Caitlin O’Reilly.

A favorite among classmates and the captain of the soccer team, Paul graduated from Amity Regional High School in 1982. He then received his bachelor’s degree in communications from Central Connecticut University in 1988.

Following college, Paul took his sales ambitions to New York City where he began a career in publishing, television, and advertising that lasted over three decades. Most recently, Paul served as the Sales Director of Sound and Sound, a music tech brand and publication, for 13 years. He especially enjoyed attending live events with his coworkers and clients.

A wine aficionado and collector of cars, Paul had an unmatched zest for life with good company, food, and adventure. He had a passion for cars and founded events like BAM3 (Bay Area M3), the largest gathering of vintage BMW E30 M3 cars on the West Coast. He loved driving his friends and clients through the California wine country in his Jeep, which he referred to as “Paul’s Tipsy Taxi.” This zest was paired with an appreciation for photography. Ask Paul about any trip and he held stacks of memories ready to share.

A natural extrovert, he could strike up a conversation with anyone and found energy in his communities, whether at work or his hobbies. Paul also participated in weekly mentoring at Mentor Me Petaluma, a non-profit organization connecting youth with role models in the community. Part magnetic and part meticulous, Paul relished life’s little luxuries without skimping on detail. He will be remembered for his undeniable charisma.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, August 28, from 5 to 7 o’clock.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, 10 o’clock, in Holy Infant Church (456 Racebrook Road, Orange) followed by interment in Mt. St. Peter Cemetery, Derby.   In typical Paul fashion, a celebration of life will be held in Spring 2024 in Santa Rosa, CA.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Sonoma chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities in memory of Paul (www.speedwaycharities.org/donate). 

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