Paul Mitchell

PAUL MITCHELL The Mitchell family is sad to announce the unexpected and untimely death of Paul Douglas Mitchell, age 67. A longtime resident of Richmond Hill and an avid sailor, Paul passed away in the final moments of October 1, 2011 in a tragic boating accident off of Ward's Island in Toronto Harbour. Paul was born in Toronto's east end on September 24, 1944. The youngest son of Fred and Marjorie Mitchell (following Jack (deceased) and Bill), Paul left school early to become an Iron Worker, travelling throughout much of Ontario as he plied his trade. Before getting married at the age of 27, Paul and a friend took their motorcycles throughout Canada, the United States and Mexico. On the way home, he met Becky J. Nielsen, then resident in Minnesota, whom he married three years later in a quiet rural ceremony. Less than a year later, Paul and Becky relocated to Toronto, briefly, before heading to Europe for an extended adventure. In January 1975, their first son, Brennan Nielsen Mitchell, was born, followed by their second son, Ryan Fredrick Christopher Mitchell in December 1976. The early years of family life saw yearly relocations, but by the summer of 1979 the family had settled in Richmond Hill, where they remained for the next 32 years. Paul's professional life was a great source of pride and inspiration to him. As an Iron Worker, the height of his career came during the building of the CN Tower, where he performed the difficult and dangerous job of topping off what was then the world's tallest free-standing structure. Paul worked for several different structural steel companies over the years, retiring as President of Canron Construction Corp. However, his restless character was not suited to a life of leisure and, after some consulting work, Paul took the helm of the Ontario Erectors' Association, becoming a professional negotiator. At the time of his death, Paul was also Canadian Chairman of the International Foundation and the head management trustee of the Iron Workers' Pension Fund. Throughout his long and storied career, he never ceased to delight in those around him. When he wasn't working, Paul could often be found at the Aquatic Park Sailing Club -- a place that provided him with many dear companions and adventures over the years -- or hitting the auction circuit. He was especially fond of socializing with old friends and neighbours on his veranda, sharing his love of fine wine and humourous story telling. Above all, he loved his wife, Becky and took great pride in the accomplishments of his children, with whom he was uncommonly close. He was looking forward to retirement so that he could spend more time with Ryan, Amy and their daughters, Emily and Ava (expected) in Florida. Paul was a larger-than-life character, a man of overwhelming generosity and kindness and a source of inspiration and strength to many. His appetite for life was unbounded; words are far too paltry to express the extent to which he will be missed. A memorial service will be held in his honour on Wednesday, October 12th at the United Church in Richmond Hill (at Yonge and Centre), commencing no later than 11 a.m., with a reception to follow. Anyone who knew him will be welcome to say a few words in remembrance. Donations to either the Salvation Army or the United Church of Richmond Hill will be appreciated.