Malden Mourns 'Larger-Than-Life' Former Resident

MALDEN, MA — A longtime Malden educator and "larger-than-life" former resident passed away unexpectedly while vacationing with his family in the Outer Banks. Paul Abare was 69 years old.

Abare, a Malden native, served the school district for 36 years, first as a teacher and then as an assistant principal, according to his obituary. Abare was a 1969 graduate of Malden High School and basketball legend, who was known as the "best player at the YMCA during the Y's 'glory days' – he played his beloved game well into his 60s," a statement from the city reads.

Read the full statement below:

"The City of Malden mourns the passing of larger-than-life former Malden resident and Malden Public Schools Educator Paul Abare. Paul was a true gentleman well-known for his kind ways and classy demeanor. A 1969 graduate of Malden High School, Paul was a basketball legend on the court who was revered by his teammates. He was known as the best player at the YMCA during the Y’s “glory days” – he played his beloved game well into his 60s. As a teacher in the Malden Public School system he was notorious for his compassion and great patience with his students and colleagues. A devoted family man, Paul was loved by all who knew him - he will truly be missed."

A memorial service for relatives and friends will be held Tuesday, Aug. 4 from 4-7 p.m. at Gately Funeral Home in Melrose. A mass will be held at Incarnation Church in Melrose.