WINDSOR LOCKS – Paul R. Koistinen, 90, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 surrounded by his family. Born in Torrington, son of the late Paul and Marcella (Dempsky) Koistinen, he was a 1950 graduate of Simsbury High School. He has lived in Windsor Locks since 1960. Paul was a meat cutter for over forty years for the former Finast Supermarkets, retiring in 1996. He was a Marine Corp veteran of the Korean Conflict from 1950 – 1954, attaining the rank of Sergeant. Paul was at his happiest around friends and family. His passion was playing cards especially Setback, whether it was always finishing first in his weekly leagues at the Knights of Columbus and Polish National Home or "friendly" Sunday games with his family. Paul loved bartending and continued well into his 80s at Polka and Swing dances at the Polish National Home. He would wait for the coldest days in winter to serve up a pot of beef stew, a recipe he perfected after leaving the Marines. He was also a member the American Legion and the Meat Cutters Union. He always looked forward to bus trips to the casino and was a Covid-19 survivor. He was predeceased by a brother, Herbert Koistinen. He leaves his wife of sixty-four years, Irene (Toper) Koistinen, a son and his wife, Robert P. and Kimberlee Koistinen of Suffield, a daughter and her husband, Susan I. and Ralph Santabarbara of Windsor Locks, two sisters, Barbara Latonie of East Granby, Pauline Smalley of New Hartford, five grandchildren, Katherine Koistinen Hastings, Michael P. Koistinen, Louis P. Santabarbara, Kristine Koistinen, Donna Santabarbara, two great-grandchildren, Tobin and Delaney Hastings, and several nieces and nephews. Due to the current pandemic, the family has decided to have private services. For online condolences, please visit www.brownefuneralchapel.com.