Paul, you were a remarkable caring person. We knew you first when you worked at the Delawana like the family and so many of us. You were always brilliant in social situations. When you were Social Director your bingo games drew hundreds! In a room full of people, you could form a real connection with each and every one. For those of us lucky enough to know you well, you made us all feel like we were your best friends. If laughter is the best medicine you should have been a doctor. We don't mean just the ordinary kind of ha!ha! (although we shared many of those) but the sidesplitting belly laughter that releases the heart and mind and soul. Although we could write a book of treasured memories, we especially think of you and Helen at Windermere House when you were so close to us and our children. We shared so much during those times and your good cheer and optimism influenced us all. Then there was your courage! You bore a relentless disease not only with amazing grace but with your unfailing sense of humour. You are a true inspiration. Paul, we will never forget you! To Helen, Andrea and Clare we send our condolences on your loss-he was taken too soon. We wish you joy and consolation in precious baby Sophie and laughter through your tears. Lots of love, Fred and Shonnie

My, how time passes. So sad to hear of Paul’s passing; he was a class act; ever the gentleman, impeccably dressed, groomed, and yet there was always a sense of humour and playfulness bubbling beneath the very calm, controlled exterior. Wonderful guy. I will always remember him wheeling into the Brebeuf parking lot commanding that big, dark green Buick Electra 225, gliding it effortlessly; smooth, calm and confidently to rest. Be well, friend, Paul McKernan

My parents cottage on McArthur Drive.

Kelly and I tried to plan our own wedding but didn't have a clue about what we were doing. We even had the invitations printed. Paul phoned me and said would you like me to help???? So Paul and Helen organized our wedding at Windermere. We could not have done it with out them. My Father's buddies all showed up (Halls,Wakelys, Bernardos, DeCarli) and were sitiing at a table waiting for lunch. Paul came over to the table, in cohoots with my Father, and told them that Kelly's family were very religious and that it was a 'dry' wedding and that there wouldn't be any alcohol served all weekend. Paul then let them sit for a bit while Mr. Hall and Mr. Wakely almost had heart attack trying to find out where the nearet LCBO so they could have a bottle in their rooms. My Father and Paul told them that it was too far to drive and the LCBO would be closed. In the end Paul let them know it was all a joke. The day of the wedding Paul sent a bottle of champagne up to Kelly's room to enjoy while the girls got ready. Subsequently Kelly and the girls and her official photographer (Margie Graham) were 45 minutes late for the Church.

Kelly and I tried to plan our own wedding but didn't have a clue about what we were doing. We even had the invitations printed. Paul phoned me and said would you like me to help???? So Paul and Helen organized our wedding at Windermere. We could not have done it with out them. My Father's buddies all showed up (Halls,Wakelys, Bernardos, DeCarli) and were sitiing at a table waiting for lunch. Paul came over to the table, in cohoots with my Father, and told them that Kelly's family were very religious and that it was a 'dry' wedding and that there wouldn't be any alcohol served all weekend. Paul then let them sit for a bit while Mr. Hall and Mr. Wakely almost had heart attack trying to find out where the nearet LCBO so they could have a bottle in their rooms. My Father and Paul told them that it was too far to drive and the LCBO would be closed. In the end Paul let them know it was all a joke. The day of the wedding Paul sent a bottle of champagne up to Kelly's room to enjoy while the girls got ready. Subsequently Kelly and the girls and her official photographer (Margie Graham) were 45 minutes late for the Church.

I took this photo of Helen, Paul and baby Andrea at their Castlefield Ave home in 1980. Paul was working at Ontario Place and was a larger than life character with hair to match.

October 1980: It was my year in Canada, visiting from far away Australia. Paul's holding baby Andrea and we were pumpkin huntin because I had no idea how big these Canadian pumpkins were! That's me on the right with the long hair.

We were all very fortunate to have grown up with our kissing cousins. They were not only our cousins, they were and still are our friends. Thanks to our Granny and our parents, we spent a lot of time together. As young kids, we spent Christmases together, also 1st Communions and Confirmations with breakfast at Fran's later. Georgian Bay was the catalyst for that bonding. Many memories of Graham's cottage; bonfires, guitars, winters up there, digging holes in the ice to get water, boating, dancing, horseback riding (I rode Bell too like Paul and I fell off him once on the big hill!)...what fun we had. As Michael said, the Windermere Cousins Weekend was the best, even if Judy Flanagan was smoking. Laughing, laughing, laughing - we all knew how to do that the best. Formals in high school and parties - your "group" always contained at least 50% brothers, sisters or cousins. We were and are a lucky group to have each other. Paul was one of those good guys. A nice guy. When I think of Paul, I see him with a big smile on his face. He was kind and thoughtful. When I lived in England in the 90's, Paul would occasionally call to see how we were doing. I remember he always ended the call with "I love you". We all have a special place in our hearts for Paul. With his challenges, he still was a giver, making the journey from the West to a couple of funerals in his last 10 years and a wedding just 2 years ago. He was truly a family man and treasured that bond faithfully. Helen, Clare and Andrea - I know that all the wonderful memories you have of Paul/your dad will keep you comforted in the times to come. How lucky we all are to have had this wonderful person in our lives.