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PAUL DENNESS JOHN SYME

PAUL DENNESS JOHN SYME obituary

PAUL SYME Obituary

SYME, PAUL DENNESS JOHN October 27, 1949 - July 30, 2017 Paul was born in Cornwall, Ontario to Norma Helene Bass and Hugh Alexander Syme. Paul lived well and with integrity until his untimely death at age 67. He passed in peace at St. Michael's Hospital on the last Sunday in July. He died surrounded by objects of great comfort, listening to treasured songs and in the loving company of his wife, Audrey, and his daughter, Clara. In life Paul held many roles that were important to him and which brought him joy: Older brother to Ann and Hugh. Life-partner and best friend to Audrey. Adored Dad to Clara. Brother-in-law to Paul, Sandra, and David. An architect of many spaces - built and unbuilt. One of the three uncles of the former 3rd Uncle Design Inc. A teacher, never imposing and always listening, he had formidable patience for those who were earnest in their architectural pursuits. As a critic he was sharply analytic, yet remained open to the world; his ideas "easily corrupted," forever intent on learning. A thoughtful friend, one who valued the lasting presence of those connections. Committed music appreciator, wine drinker, cheese eater, trail runner, and skier. The one who would take Rory on her afternoon walk, both such creatures of habit. Paul will be deeply missed and continuously loved in his absence. In keeping with Paul's wishes there will be no funeral or service.

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Published by Toronto Star on Aug. 5, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for PAUL SYME

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15 Entries

Adrian Blackwell

November 5, 2017

I was Pauls student and Waterloo and he was my undergraduate thesis supervisor. When I started teaching architecture, he was my model for how to teach. Paul didnt push students in specific directions, he asked challenging and critical questions, while thinking alongside his students work. The sense of equality between teacher and student that he fostered was a political and ethical commitment as well as an act of generosity that gave his students confidence in what they were doing. It only makes sense that he supervised some very inventive thesis projects at Waterloo. I miss Pauls presence, but I am happy to know that his approach to practice and education lives on in the architecture of this region.

David Oleson

August 20, 2017

Gone too soon . . . . a creative soul and a joyful personality. We collaborated on different projects; I knew a project would be good with Paul on the team.

Drew Mandel

August 12, 2017

An important part of Toronto's design story and a very fine man.

Mark Sterling

August 11, 2017

My first "boss" after graduating - and a freind. He will be missed. Our thoughts are with Audrey and Clara.

Eunice Lam

August 10, 2017

Paul was a patient, kind, and knowledgable boss who will be fondly remembered. My thoughts are with his family and friends in this hard time.

Drake Hotel

August 9, 2017

As principal architect Paul played an integral role in the original renovation of the Drake Hotel and we couldn't have done it without him. He was a fine man who will be missed by many. Our condolences to his friends and family. RIP Paul. Jeff, Bill & Denise

Paul Whelan

August 8, 2017

Paul was an inspiration to me. Kind, thoughtful and patient. I learned so much from him as an architect and mentor. My fondest memories will be of the weekly drives we took to Waterloo when I was TA for one of his studio courses. His knowledge was daunting but never over-powering. Paul's basic humanity underscored his relationships with everyone I know he touched. What a loss for all of us and especially his family. I hope there are great ski trails wherever he has gone.

Barbara Zee

August 8, 2017

Paul was one of the best, as a teacher and mentor, within the School of Architecture, and also during the long process of becoming an architect. He taught with grace and humour, and for me, a wonderful sense of whimsey. I feel privileged for having known him. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. RIP.

Robert Bradbury

August 8, 2017

Paul touched the lives of so many people is such positive ways! he will be missed.

Nathan Dykstra

August 8, 2017

I learned a lot from Paul. He was an amazing boss, mentor and friend. He will be missed.

Jenny Francis

August 8, 2017

Paul was a great mentor and a friend and boss. I miss approaching his desk for advice about a detail or situation and he would always pick up his pencil with zeal and we would figure it out. I will miss him, his kindness and his sense of humour - we so often shared a grin about something. My condolences to Audrey and Clara and his family. Far too soon.

Megan Cassidy

August 7, 2017

I learned a lot from Paul during a summer internship at 3rd Uncle Design. I always had too many questions, which he so patiently answered. He was a mentor and teacher to all the young people who worked there. Thanks to him for being kind but also funny, and having a great knowledge of architecture and it's practice to share. I'm thinking of his family at this time: Clara, hugs to you, I'm so sorry for your loss.

Todd Macyk

August 7, 2017

Thank-you Paul for your unwavering support and guidance throughout my thesis work at U of Waterloo 1989-1990. Your kindness and thoughtfulness during that year remains a source of strength and inspiration for me both professionally and personally. Rest in Peace

Jason Kearns

August 6, 2017

You will be missed as will our talks on so many things........RIP Paul

Janna Levitt

August 5, 2017

I was so sorry to hear of Paul's sudden death. He was a pleasure to work with at Waterloo School of Architecture. He and Audrey's daughter Clara was an incredible student and also staff member. The world is a little bit smaller today as a result of his passing.

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