Paul passed away peacefully, surrounded by love at Freeport Health Centre on Thursday March 30, 2023 at the age of 71 years.
He was born and raised in Yorkshire, England, before moving to Canada in 1982. His work life was varied, from working with his brother in England in the aluminum and double-glazed window industry, to IT Software Developer. At the time of his passing, he was employed part-time with Toronto Council on Aging, and was looking forward to exploring additional research opportunities.
Paul was a life-long learner, including degrees from Brock University and Athabasca University. He earned two Master’s degrees from Athabasca in the last four years, with the latest one being conferred on March 15, 2023. He was currently a student at Toronto Metropolitan University, and anticipated graduation at the end of 2024. Helping him in his education was his immense memory and range of knowledge which he was eager to share with anyone. Ask him a question and he would give a quick answer followed by an in-depth review of connections to relevant movies, music, books, and links to additional resources!
He was also passionate about advocacy efforts in the field of disabilities, and he was a shining example of how much a person with disabilities can accomplish with the right supports including adaptive equipment. He earned the two Master’s degrees and conducted all his current work while in full hospital care and on ventilator support, using adaptive equipment for his computer. His “office” of computer equipment was installed on the over-the-bed table and was rolled in front of him each day so he could work.
Most of all, Paul was a people person with a bright personality – always positive, always ready with a joke, always seeing the good in people and any situation which came his way. He will be deeply missed by all his family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances.
Beloved partner and best friend of Kathy Silliker. Dear brother of Thelma Reynolds (and husband Paul Reynolds). Inspirational uncle to many nieces and nephews and their families in US and UK.
Predeceased by his parents Harold and Margery Benson; sister Marion Baird; brother Richard Benson .
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday June 10, 2023 from 12 - 3pm - eulogy at 1pm at the Wellington Terrace, 410 John Street, Burlington, ON.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made as donations to a charity of the individual’s choice, reflecting their personal connection with Paul.
Messages and condolences may be left for the family at www.tricitycremations.com or 519.772.1237. Please visit Paul's obituary notice on Facebook.
He was born and raised in Yorkshire, England, before moving to Canada in 1982. His work life was varied, from working with his brother in England in the aluminum and double-glazed window industry, to IT Software Developer. At the time of his passing, he was employed part-time with Toronto Council on Aging, and was looking forward to exploring additional research opportunities.
Paul was a life-long learner, including degrees from Brock University and Athabasca University. He earned two Master’s degrees from Athabasca in the last four years, with the latest one being conferred on March 15, 2023. He was currently a student at Toronto Metropolitan University, and anticipated graduation at the end of 2024. Helping him in his education was his immense memory and range of knowledge which he was eager to share with anyone. Ask him a question and he would give a quick answer followed by an in-depth review of connections to relevant movies, music, books, and links to additional resources!
He was also passionate about advocacy efforts in the field of disabilities, and he was a shining example of how much a person with disabilities can accomplish with the right supports including adaptive equipment. He earned the two Master’s degrees and conducted all his current work while in full hospital care and on ventilator support, using adaptive equipment for his computer. His “office” of computer equipment was installed on the over-the-bed table and was rolled in front of him each day so he could work.
Most of all, Paul was a people person with a bright personality – always positive, always ready with a joke, always seeing the good in people and any situation which came his way. He will be deeply missed by all his family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances.
Beloved partner and best friend of Kathy Silliker. Dear brother of Thelma Reynolds (and husband Paul Reynolds). Inspirational uncle to many nieces and nephews and their families in US and UK.
Predeceased by his parents Harold and Margery Benson; sister Marion Baird; brother Richard Benson .
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday June 10, 2023 from 12 - 3pm - eulogy at 1pm at the Wellington Terrace, 410 John Street, Burlington, ON.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made as donations to a charity of the individual’s choice, reflecting their personal connection with Paul.
Messages and condolences may be left for the family at www.tricitycremations.com or 519.772.1237. Please visit Paul's obituary notice on Facebook.
