Paul Vassallo, formerly of Marsa, made a name for himself and for Malta in the United States. For many years, he distinguished himself in the Library of Congress in Washington, DC, reaching the highest ranks until he settled for many years in Albuquerque, at the University of New Mexico. His professional career in librarianship is too long to summarise here but, although he lived his successful life in the US, he remained Maltese at heart.

On his retirement, some 12 years ago, Paul found his joy in cooking, setting up a very popular club for his friends, and in his frequent visits to Malta to rediscover his origins.

People who knew Paul personally would tell you how delightful and excited he would become when friends showed the slightest nterest to know more about Malta, its culture and traditions.

The last time I saw him was when he last visited Malta, about two years ago. As usual, he invited me, his second cousin, and my mother, his first cousin, to join his big group of friends for a fenkata at Għar Lapsi.

Paul died on September 30, aged 75. He had emigrated to Detroit, Michigan, with his family in his teenage years leaving behind his education at the Seminary.

On joining his new secondary school in Detroit, he found out that his knowledge of Latin by far surpassed that of his new Latin teacher and he even served as a frequent point of reference to him.

He continued his studies in Detroit obtaining a first degree in political science and later a Master’s in librarianship. In the 1960s, he moved to the Library of Congress where he made a name for himself.

I will remember Paul for his great personality, his vast knowledge and culture, and for his love for his country. Above all, he showed courage to combat the severe illness he had to bear for many years and, in many ways, he managed to do this by living and enjoying his life to the full against all odds.

Readers who wish to have a glimpse of Paul’s obituary can see it on the Washington Post website or at www.legacy.com