It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Paul Ahn on February 8, 2021, following complications from COVID-19. He was 69 years old. Paul was born on January 19, 1952, in Clark, New Jersey. After graduating from Rutgers University, Paul founded Flavor Materials International in 1984. Over the course of 36 years, …
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It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Paul Ahn on February 8, 2021, following complications from COVID-19. He was 69 years old.
Paul was born on January 19, 1952, in Clark, New Jersey. After graduating from Rutgers University, Paul founded Flavor Materials International in 1984. Over the course of 36 years, Paul poured his heart and soul into the business, transforming it from a small NJ-based operation to a multi-national company with footprints in the United States, Asia, and Central America. An icon in the industry, he was a delegate to the International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades (IFEAT) for more than 30 years and was widely known for his highly personal approach to nurturing customer and vendor relationships.
Paul was happiest spending time with his sons at home in Rumson, NJ. He loved preparing elaborate meals and could often be found outside, whether skiing in Vermont or boating on the Navesink River with family and friends. An avid world traveler, Paul made an impression wherever he landed, documented each trip with numerous pictures, and was always looking forward to his next adventure. He created his own blueprint for a life well spent and lived each day to the fullest.
Paul is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his sons, Douglas and Christopher; his daughter-in-law, Jessa; his brothers, Philip and Christopher; his sisters-in-law Marilyn, Kimberly, and Karen; his brothers-in-law Michael and Doug; and seven nieces and nephews, Cristina, Jeremy, Justine, Dan, Luke, Matt, and Dean.
A gathering will be on Friday, February 19th from 2:00 to 7:00 pm at the Holmdel Funeral Home, located at 26 South Holmdel Road in Holmdel, NJ. A virtual memorial service will be offered in the coming weeks for those who are not able to attend in person. In lieu of customary remembrances, Paul’s family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions in his name be made to JBJ Soul Kitchen (NJ No. CH233000; NY No. 40-31-50). For messages of condolence, please visit Paul’s page of tributes at https://wbhfh.com/obituary/paul-ahn/
Kindly note for the health and safety of all guests, current state protocols of social distancing and wearing of face masks are required.
Dinah Diaz
left a message on September 7, 2023:
My deepest condolences to the Ahn family and friends. I am in shock and just found out about the passing of Paul Ahn. I knew Paul from the flavor industry; he was always an amazing human being, a perfect gentleman, kind and always willing to try new things to bring advance the flavor industry forward. I am deeply saddened of his passing but he I will always remember his kindness. Rest in Peach Paul.
Yunus Bandukwala
left a message on September 30, 2021:
Paul was a good friend and my Mentor. Helped me a lot in pursuing new projects and encourage me on it.
He will be greatly miss and May God give his soul higher rank in heaven.
Irma Conant
left a message on February 26, 2021:
My deepest sympathy to Paul's family.He will be missed! I was shocked to know he's gone.It was a pleasure to deliver all his packages he ordered last Christmas to his beautiful home. In Ludlow VERMONT.
Maria and Chip Schulz
left a message on February 22, 2021:
Kathy, Doug and Chris,
We were so saddened to hear of Paul’s passing. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Many fond memories of Paul grilling up a feast for numerous families in your Ludlow home. We will miss his kind, sharing spirit.
God bless you all,
Chip, Maria, Max and Ali
Arlene White Meadows
left a message on February 20, 2021:
My condolences to the entire Ahn family. Our hearts are broken over the loss of our beloved boss. He will forever be remembered; he will forever be missed.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Brenda Marques Natale
left a message on February 19, 2021:
Deepest condolences to the Ahn family. I am ao very sorry for your loss. For all these years, I would hear stories of Paul being an incredible business man, caring boss who was loyal to his employees (so many who continued with him from the early days), and he loved his sons/family. I will never forget smiling when I would hear that he would make lunch for his sons when they were boys and would spend time at FMI. Though that was so sweet. He was a foodie and enjoyed bringing in delicious food to share for lunch. May he Rest In Peace and be remembered fondly always.
Sincerely, Brenda Marques Natale
DEEPAK ARORA
left a message on February 19, 2021:
The loss of someone dear to us is never easy. I always felt a connection with him. It was wonderful experience working for him. My condolence to Kathy, Doug and Cristopher.
Dinah Fuentes
left a message on February 19, 2021:
My condolences to the Ahn Family. I'll keep your family in prayer.
Charlie Guare
left a message on February 19, 2021:
I was a very good friend with Paul during my JR & Sr year in High School. We both drove MGs when muscle cars raged. We made numerous trips to Staten Island (beer runs) etc. On one of those trips (me driving) we collided with a drunk driver - I thought he was a goner. He pulled through ( many stitches later). We also worked together making the lemon tea flavor for Lipton Tea in a tiny warehouse in Scotch Plains - no doubt that’s where is his career was launched. Saw Paul at out last HS reunion & caught up - like it was yesterday.
It sounds trite to say but he was a good friend to me and to many others / he was driven to succeed and make something of himself.
Paul, God Bless
Charlie
Richard Alex San Martin / Michelle
left a message on February 19, 2021:
Our sincere condolences to Paul's family, friends and everyone at FMI.
We will miss you Paul, rest in peace.
Radha Morales
left a message on February 19, 2021:
Heartfelt condolences to the Ahn family. Beautiful pics and memories that were shared. To Doug and the FMI team, he was truly the best boss I've ever had, most humble and compassionate; treated everyone like family. May we all continue to make FMI proud and carry on his legacy.
Dana Miller
left a message on February 19, 2021:
Dear Kathy, Doug and Christopher,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will always remember Christmas Eves with our families together and Paul in the kitchen. He was such a kind and generous man who made sure everyone felt welcome in your home. We will miss him. Thanks for the wonderful memories.
Love,
Dana, Doug, Austin, Hanna and Henry
Marianela Molina
left a message on February 19, 2021:
We have lost a great man, a mentor and a friend. He truly cared about his employees and he will be greatly missed by all. My condolences to the family, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Ángel santos
left a message on February 19, 2021:
In memory of Paul Ahn, Ángel santos lit a candle
Dietmar Hirt
left a message on February 18, 2021:
My heartfelt condolences to the Ahn family. May you find strength for the days ahead. Paul was a wonderful man and will be very much missed. I have deep admiration for him and will always hold him in great memory.
Frank Del Corso
left a message on February 18, 2021:
In memory of Paul Ahn, Frank Del Corso lit a candle
Valerie Najam
left a message on February 18, 2021:
My sincere condolences. Paul was a great man and will be missed.
Iris Guzman
left a message on February 18, 2021:
We will always remember a very special person like it was Paul to all of us, our deepest condolences to the Ahn family, may he rest in peace.
Wilmer, Iris, Eliseo & Cecilio.
Mike Urella
left a message on February 18, 2021:
In fond remembrance of the best boss I have ever had in my long career. May his legacy and memories continue with his sons and his fine and devoted team at FMI.
Mike Urella
left a message on February 18, 2021:
In fond remembrance of the best boss I have ever had in my long career. May his legacy and memories continue with his sons and his fine and devoted team at FMI.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Mike Urella
left a message on February 18, 2021:
In fond remembrance of the best boss I have ever had in my long career. May his legacy and memories continue with his sons and his fine and devoted team at FMI.
jody Lombardi
left a message on February 18, 2021:
It saddens me to hear of Paul’s passing.
My deepest condolences to the family.
My prayers are with you at this difficult time.
John Keller
left a message on February 18, 2021:
Our deepest condolences to the Ahn family, we will miss you so much "Maestro".
John Cucinella
left a message on February 17, 2021:
Extending my heartfelt and deepest condolences to the Ahn family during these difficult times. My friend we journeyed, my mentor you taught me well. You will always be in my heart. You will always be remembered. May you rest in peace.
Craig Zelazny
left a message on February 17, 2021:
My deepest condolences to the Ahn family. Paul was such a memorable person and it was a pleasure to be able to work with him. He will be sorely missed.
Lisa Piccininni
left a message on February 17, 2021:
I was so saddened to hear the news of Paul's passing. He was a good friend and mentor over the years. I spoke with him frequently on the markets, and current events. I will miss him greatly. My sincerest condolences to his family.
Bessy Arriaga
left a message on February 17, 2021:
In memory of Paul Ahn, Bessy Arriaga lit a candle
Tammy Inzinna
left a message on February 17, 2021:
My deepest condolences to the Ahn family, you are in my heart and mind. I will never forget his kindness. He will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace.
Ian Gorenstein
left a message on February 17, 2021:
My deepest condolences to Ahn family. Paul always was an extremely talented businessman. But more importantly he was a great human being - witty, smart and sharp. I have known him for more than 20 years. He will always be missed.
Rich Hofmann
left a message on February 17, 2021:
Dear Kathy, Doug and Christopher,
Our warmest thoughts and prayers go out to you. Paul left a very positive mark on our lives. He was well respected and loved by many. Although we can’t remove your pain we can share in your loss.
All the best and God Bless.
Rich & Vera Hofmann
Marjorie Feldman
left a message on February 17, 2021:
Dear Kathy, Doug, and Christopher,
I am so sad to hear about Paul’s passing. I remember with fondness our time together at RCDS and Peddie. I hope someday soon you can find peace.
Our love, Marjorie, David, Brennan, Coulston, and Drew Feldman
Katrina Neale
left a message on February 17, 2021:
Sending heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the Ahn family from all of us at Global Essence Inc. Paul will be sorely missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace and may you find strength in the days ahead.
Benny Seetaram
left a message on February 17, 2021:
My deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the Ahn family. I share your loss and pray for strength as you go through this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace
Claire Strouse
left a message on February 16, 2021:
We send our condolences. He will be sorely missed. We hope he is in a better place.
Love ,The Strouse Family
Barbara Morgan
left a message on February 16, 2021:
Kathy, Douglas and Christopher I am so sorry for your loss. He was a good man and will be missed. Prayers for all of you during this difficult time.
John &Tammy Henkel
left a message on February 16, 2021:
Kathy, Doug, and Chris
Paul did alot of traveling which sometimes took him far away from home. However, he always knew where he came from.
Whether it was a week, a month, 3am or 8pm he always found his way back. I can't tell you how much he will be missed, and how much I will miss him.
With my deepest sympathy
Peter Hetzler III
left a message on February 16, 2021:
There are too many great, wonderful memories of Mr. Ahn to write down just a few, and I wouldn’t be able to do them justice anyway. He was a large part of my childhood, and I will forever be grateful for his kindness and generosity—as if I were one of his own sons. I will truly miss him.
Heribel Dejesus
left a message on February 16, 2021:
My deepest sympathies are with the entire Ahn family. Please know that I am praying for your peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Lisa Fraraccio-Marotta
left a message on February 15, 2021:
My sincere condolences to Kathy and the boys and extended family. Paul was a great boss. You are all in my prayers.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Dinah Diaz
left a message on September 7, 2023:
My deepest condolences to the Ahn family and friends. I am in shock and just found out about the passing of Paul Ahn. I knew Paul from the flavor industry; he was always an amazing human being, a perfect gentleman, kind and always willing to try new things to bring advance the flavor industry forward. I am deeply saddened of his passing but he I will always remember his kindness. Rest in Peach Paul.
Yunus Bandukwala
left a message on September 30, 2021:
Paul was a good friend and my Mentor. Helped me a lot in pursuing new projects and encourage me on it.
He will be greatly miss and May God give his soul higher rank in heaven.
Irma Conant
left a message on February 26, 2021:
My deepest sympathy to Paul's family.He will be missed! I was shocked to know he's gone.It was a pleasure to deliver all his packages he ordered last Christmas to his beautiful home. In Ludlow VERMONT.
Maria and Chip Schulz
left a message on February 22, 2021:
Kathy, Doug and Chris,
We were so saddened to hear of Paul’s passing. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Many fond memories of Paul grilling up a feast for numerous families in your Ludlow home. We will miss his kind, sharing spirit.
God bless you all,
Chip, Maria, Max and Ali
Arlene White Meadows
left a message on February 20, 2021:
My condolences to the entire Ahn family. Our hearts are broken over the loss of our beloved boss. He will forever be remembered; he will forever be missed.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Brenda Marques Natale
left a message on February 19, 2021:
Deepest condolences to the Ahn family. I am ao very sorry for your loss. For all these years, I would hear stories of Paul being an incredible business man, caring boss who was loyal to his employees (so many who continued with him from the early days), and he loved his sons/family. I will never forget smiling when I would hear that he would make lunch for his sons when they were boys and would spend time at FMI. Though that was so sweet. He was a foodie and enjoyed bringing in delicious food to share for lunch. May he Rest In Peace and be remembered fondly always.
Sincerely, Brenda Marques Natale
DEEPAK ARORA
left a message on February 19, 2021:
The loss of someone dear to us is never easy. I always felt a connection with him. It was wonderful experience working for him. My condolence to Kathy, Doug and Cristopher.
Dinah Fuentes
left a message on February 19, 2021:
My condolences to the Ahn Family. I'll keep your family in prayer.
Charlie Guare
left a message on February 19, 2021:
I was a very good friend with Paul during my JR & Sr year in High School. We both drove MGs when muscle cars raged. We made numerous trips to Staten Island (beer runs) etc. On one of those trips (me driving) we collided with a drunk driver - I thought he was a goner. He pulled through ( many stitches later). We also worked together making the lemon tea flavor for Lipton Tea in a tiny warehouse in Scotch Plains - no doubt that’s where is his career was launched. Saw Paul at out last HS reunion & caught up - like it was yesterday.
It sounds trite to say but he was a good friend to me and to many others / he was driven to succeed and make something of himself.
Paul, God Bless
Charlie
Richard Alex San Martin / Michelle
left a message on February 19, 2021:
Our sincere condolences to Paul's family, friends and everyone at FMI.
We will miss you Paul, rest in peace.
Radha Morales
left a message on February 19, 2021:
Heartfelt condolences to the Ahn family. Beautiful pics and memories that were shared. To Doug and the FMI team, he was truly the best boss I've ever had, most humble and compassionate; treated everyone like family. May we all continue to make FMI proud and carry on his legacy.
Dana Miller
left a message on February 19, 2021:
Dear Kathy, Doug and Christopher,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will always remember Christmas Eves with our families together and Paul in the kitchen. He was such a kind and generous man who made sure everyone felt welcome in your home. We will miss him. Thanks for the wonderful memories.
Love,
Dana, Doug, Austin, Hanna and Henry
Marianela Molina
left a message on February 19, 2021:
We have lost a great man, a mentor and a friend. He truly cared about his employees and he will be greatly missed by all. My condolences to the family, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Ángel santos
left a message on February 19, 2021:
In memory of Paul Ahn, Ángel santos lit a candle
Dietmar Hirt
left a message on February 18, 2021:
My heartfelt condolences to the Ahn family. May you find strength for the days ahead. Paul was a wonderful man and will be very much missed. I have deep admiration for him and will always hold him in great memory.
Frank Del Corso
left a message on February 18, 2021:
In memory of Paul Ahn, Frank Del Corso lit a candle
Valerie Najam
left a message on February 18, 2021:
My sincere condolences. Paul was a great man and will be missed.
Iris Guzman
left a message on February 18, 2021:
We will always remember a very special person like it was Paul to all of us, our deepest condolences to the Ahn family, may he rest in peace.
Wilmer, Iris, Eliseo & Cecilio.
Mike Urella
left a message on February 18, 2021:
In fond remembrance of the best boss I have ever had in my long career. May his legacy and memories continue with his sons and his fine and devoted team at FMI.
Mike Urella
left a message on February 18, 2021:
In fond remembrance of the best boss I have ever had in my long career. May his legacy and memories continue with his sons and his fine and devoted team at FMI.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Mike Urella
left a message on February 18, 2021:
In fond remembrance of the best boss I have ever had in my long career. May his legacy and memories continue with his sons and his fine and devoted team at FMI.
jody Lombardi
left a message on February 18, 2021:
It saddens me to hear of Paul’s passing.
My deepest condolences to the family.
My prayers are with you at this difficult time.
John Keller
left a message on February 18, 2021:
Our deepest condolences to the Ahn family, we will miss you so much "Maestro".
John Cucinella
left a message on February 17, 2021:
Extending my heartfelt and deepest condolences to the Ahn family during these difficult times. My friend we journeyed, my mentor you taught me well. You will always be in my heart. You will always be remembered. May you rest in peace.
Craig Zelazny
left a message on February 17, 2021:
My deepest condolences to the Ahn family. Paul was such a memorable person and it was a pleasure to be able to work with him. He will be sorely missed.
Lisa Piccininni
left a message on February 17, 2021:
I was so saddened to hear the news of Paul's passing. He was a good friend and mentor over the years. I spoke with him frequently on the markets, and current events. I will miss him greatly. My sincerest condolences to his family.
Bessy Arriaga
left a message on February 17, 2021:
In memory of Paul Ahn, Bessy Arriaga lit a candle
Tammy Inzinna
left a message on February 17, 2021:
My deepest condolences to the Ahn family, you are in my heart and mind. I will never forget his kindness. He will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace.
Ian Gorenstein
left a message on February 17, 2021:
My deepest condolences to Ahn family. Paul always was an extremely talented businessman. But more importantly he was a great human being - witty, smart and sharp. I have known him for more than 20 years. He will always be missed.
Rich Hofmann
left a message on February 17, 2021:
Dear Kathy, Doug and Christopher,
Our warmest thoughts and prayers go out to you. Paul left a very positive mark on our lives. He was well respected and loved by many. Although we can’t remove your pain we can share in your loss.
All the best and God Bless.
Rich & Vera Hofmann
Marjorie Feldman
left a message on February 17, 2021:
Dear Kathy, Doug, and Christopher,
I am so sad to hear about Paul’s passing. I remember with fondness our time together at RCDS and Peddie. I hope someday soon you can find peace.
Our love, Marjorie, David, Brennan, Coulston, and Drew Feldman
Katrina Neale
left a message on February 17, 2021:
Sending heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the Ahn family from all of us at Global Essence Inc. Paul will be sorely missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace and may you find strength in the days ahead.
Benny Seetaram
left a message on February 17, 2021:
My deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the Ahn family. I share your loss and pray for strength as you go through this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace
Claire Strouse
left a message on February 16, 2021:
We send our condolences. He will be sorely missed. We hope he is in a better place.
Love ,The Strouse Family
Barbara Morgan
left a message on February 16, 2021:
Kathy, Douglas and Christopher I am so sorry for your loss. He was a good man and will be missed. Prayers for all of you during this difficult time.
John &Tammy Henkel
left a message on February 16, 2021:
Kathy, Doug, and Chris
Paul did alot of traveling which sometimes took him far away from home. However, he always knew where he came from.
Whether it was a week, a month, 3am or 8pm he always found his way back. I can't tell you how much he will be missed, and how much I will miss him.
With my deepest sympathy
Peter Hetzler III
left a message on February 16, 2021:
There are too many great, wonderful memories of Mr. Ahn to write down just a few, and I wouldn’t be able to do them justice anyway. He was a large part of my childhood, and I will forever be grateful for his kindness and generosity—as if I were one of his own sons. I will truly miss him.
Heribel Dejesus
left a message on February 16, 2021:
My deepest sympathies are with the entire Ahn family. Please know that I am praying for your peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Lisa Fraraccio-Marotta
left a message on February 15, 2021:
My sincere condolences to Kathy and the boys and extended family. Paul was a great boss. You are all in my prayers.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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