Francis "Paul" Celauro lived a remarkable life defined by devotion to family, service to his country, professional excellence, and a passion for adventure.

Born on December 10, 1943, in Syracuse, New York, to Frank and Lillian Celauro, Paul was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Lenny Celauro. He was raised with the strong values, determination, and work ethic that guided him throughout his life.

Paul pursued higher education at Vanderbilt University, where he earned his Bachelor of Engineering degree, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in civil engineering.

He proudly served his country as a lieutenant in the United States Army Corps of Engineers, stationed in Germany, where he applied his engineering expertise in service to the nation. After completing his military service, Paul began his professional career as a civil engineer.

His work eventually brought him to Texas, where he first worked at an electrical power plant in Waco before relocating to Houston to join a private engineering consulting firm. Over nearly five decades with the company, Paul rose to become a partner, leading the marketing division and helping grow the organization into a thriving firm with more than 400 employees across eight offices throughout Texas.

Outside of his professional achievements, Paul embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. A man of many talents and passions, he enjoyed playing guitar, singing, karaoke, traveling, and Friday nights with friends at the Cuero Country Club. He also found great fulfillment as a lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, competitive sailing, and ranching. His adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors reflected his appreciation for both challenge and tranquility.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Cathy; his children, Charles (Beth), Nick (Cheryl), Rebecca (Wayne), and Stuart; his cherished grandchildren, Adam, Anthony, Brandon, and Rylee; his sister, Carolyn Celauro Harmon (Baron); his sister-in-law, Kathy Celauro Bolton; and his nieces, Kate Schultz and Lauren Harmon.

He will be remembered for his leadership, generosity, humor, adventurous spirit, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Pallbearers include Gerald Bitterly, Charles Bitterly, Joseph Bitterly, Wade Stafford, Tyler Bitterly and Joe Salgado.

Visitation will be held Sunday, May 17, 2026, 3:00 - 5:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home. Funeral Mass will be held Monday, May 18, 2026, 10:00 AM at St. Ann Catholic Church, 4162 ST HWY 111 W, Yoakum, TX 77995. Interment will follow at St. Ann Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Paul's memory to the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum, DeWitt Medical Foundation, or Hospice of South Texas.

You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.