Paul David McNamara, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, peacefully passed away on June 23, 2024, at the age of 90.
Paul was born on November 22, 1933, in St. John, New Brunswick, to Alice and Frederick McNamara. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his sisters Marie and Betty, and brothers Jack and Joseph. He is survived by his younger brother Bernie, numerous nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends.
In 1961, Paul married Norma in Montreal. They shared 62 wonderful years together and raised three sons: David (Kathy), Bruce (Mandy), and Sean (Kristina). Paul took immense pride in his family and enjoyed being a grandfather to Riley (Jenelle), Tyson, Megan, Nicole, Jory (Olga, Blake, and Logan), Chelsea, and Garett.
In 1970, Paul and Norma made Tsawwassen their home, where Paul became an integral part of the community. He dedicated himself to coaching his sons’ sports teams, fostering a love for athletics that extended to his grandchildren. Paul’s commitment to community service was evident in his roles as president of the local baseball and football associations, his three terms as president of Beach Grove Golf Club, and his participation in making soup for Food On The Corner for 10 years.
Paul was a proud member of the Canadian Air Force before enjoying a long and successful career with Acme Strapping. His retirement allowed him nearly 30 years to enjoy his favorite pastimes: watching his family excel in sports, playing golf, and sharing laughter with friends over a drink.
Paul will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his passion for sports, and his sharp sense of humor, sarcasm, and wit. His quick wit and ability to find humor in any situation brought joy to those around him.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Parish Church in Ladner on July 8th at 1:00PM followed by a Celebration of Life at Beach Grove Golf Club.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pacific Parkinson’s Research Centre (PPRC), by clicking on the link.
3 Comments
Claire Arsenault
Dear Norma, Dave, Bruce and Sean and family.
It’s not easy to decide what to write about someone you’ve known for 60+ years through a number of life stages.
Always tall with those bright blue eyes and easy smile, Uncle Paul’s presence never went unnoticed. He paid attention, was a sharp thinker and had a great memory right up til I last visited. Paul was comfortable in his own skin and interesting to be around although it was only in our retirement years that he and I shared the same opinions :). I remember taking a long look at him and giving him a serious hug when we said goodbye last Christmas (even though he was watching golf on the TV).
Rest In Peace Paul. I will miss you.
Ron Lucas
To Norma and all of Paul’s family please accept my condolences for your loss. I worked with Paul for many years at Acme Strapping and we became very good friends. When Paul retired 30 years ago we kept in touch and spoke on a regular basis last time 3 weeks ago. Paul was a real people person, had a great sense of humor and was a true friend. One of the things I loved about Paul his family always came first and when he spoke of them wether it was Norma, his sons or his grandchildren his eyes sparkled. I shall miss him and our regular chats. Rest in piece my dear friend.
God Bless You.
Ron
Mel Gallant
Dear Norma and family, I was saddened to learn of Paul’s recent passing. He was like a “gentle giant” in my eyes, a tall man (at least from a shorter Acadian perspective), and always seemingly in great, good humour… always with a smile on his face… the potential “language barrier” at large family gatherings at “the farm” never seemed to present any issues with Paul, or for the family — he was in his element spending fun time with people he loved and who loved him… his passing is a big loss to us all, and I just wanted you to know we are thinking of you at this difficult time… RIP, Paul McNamara… -Mel Gallant