Provided security for Bruins and Aerosmith
SAN DIEGO, CA — Paul Joseph Vignoli, Jr., of San Diego, CA (formerly of East Boston, MA and Melrose, MA) 71, passed away peacefully in San Diego, California, after a brief illness, with his devoted sister Laura by his side.
Born and raised in East Boston, Paul was the beloved son of the late Paul and Louise Vignoli. He was a loving brother to Ellen Vignoli of Melrose, Jeanne McCaldon and her husband David of Melrose, and Laura Paladino of Stratham, New Hampshire. Paul was a cherished uncle to Allison, Gianna, Nico, Castor, Zachary, and Anthony. He also leaves behind fond memories shared with his cousins, the Bracketts and the Prendergasts.
Paul graduated from Brookline High School and spent much of his early career in security. He proudly worked at the Boston Garden during the Bruins’ legendary 1972 Stanley Cup win, and later provided security for Aerosmith and The Joe Perry Project from 1977 to 1984, as well as at the iconic Channel nightclub.
In the next chapter of his life, Paul found joy in connecting with others through customer service roles at Teletron, Trendlines, Delta Airlines, and ProFlowers. His professional life took him to San Diego in the early 2000s — a city he fell in love with and eventually returned to permanently in 2020, fulfilling a long-held dream.
Paul will be remembered for his quick wit, generous spirit, and unmatched sense of humor. His warmth, charm, and ability to make others laugh will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Visiting hours were held on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose. A funeral Mass was held at St. Mary’s Church, 4 Herbert St., Melrose, on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 10 a.m. To leave a message of condolence please visit gatelyfh.com.