Tribute

Passed away peacefully July 26, 2020 at ARHCC with his wife Barbara and brother in law Bruce Stevenson by his side.  Born June 29, 1947 in Lisnaskea, North Ireland, he is survived by his wife Barbara, brother in law Bruce Stevenson, many relatives in Ireland, dear friends Brenda Hoffman, Sean and Jody Fitzgerald and Stanley and Claire Carstensen of Petaluma, Ca.  Paul completed his education in Ireland and graduated from Greenmount.  Seeking a change of scenery and job opportunity, Paul moved to Regina in 1966.  Recognizing opportunities in telecommunications Paul went to work for BC Tel/Telus, eventually relocating to Abbotsford where his career spanned 34 years.  He retired in October, 1992.  It was during this time that he met his wife Barbara.  They married on March 31, 2001 and Paul said that day was “the happiest of his life”.  Paul had many interests.  He had a passion for flying and dreamed of being a professional pilot.  Although that dream never materialized he did get his pilot’s license and was a member of the Abbotsford Flying Club.  Paul and Barbara were active RVers.  Their travels in Canada and the States were great adventures and led to wonderful friendships.  Traveling with their cats was an attention getter.  People always stopped to comment on their kitties, a source of joy to both Paul and Barbara.  The fact that Paul was an avid winemaker was an added benefit.  His family and friends will miss his sly sense of humor, his laugh, that wonderful Irish brogue and his ability to debate anyone under the table on everything from politics and finance to the weather.  As private and stoic as Paul was, those who knew him well found him endearing.  Paul’s family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at ARHCC – ICU and Acuity Wards for their wonderful care.  A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at a later date.  Donations in his memory may be made to ALS Society of BC.