Our beloved Paul was born in Ottawa to John Edward Arnold and Muriel Sophia Paul. The family moved to Edmonton and then to Calgary. Paul graduated from the University of Alberta, and practised dentistry in Chilliwack and, finally, in Victoria.
Paul is survived by his wife, Donna Curtis, and his daughter, Shannon Arnold; predeceased by daughter, Sheena, and by Shannon’s husband, Levend. He leaves stepdaughters Miriam (Greg), Laurel, Kelly, Tracy (Scott) and eight step-grandchildren. Also survived by his sister, Barbara (Adrian) from 108 Mile Ranch BC, and their daughters, Laura and Jennifer (Bill). Also survived by his brother, Stephen (Carynne) in Kingston ON, by their daughter, Caroline (Geoff) and children, William, Alexander, Elizabeth and Samuel; and by their son, Paul Edward John (Beverly) and children, Micaela and Madelyn. Paul is also survived by the mother of his children, Donna Porter.
A proud military family—Paul’s father was an officer in the RCAF during WW2 and his brother, a graduate of Royal Roads Military College, was an officer in the Navy—so it was no surprise when Paul joined the Army through the Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP) and became an officer in the Dental Corps, serving in Ottawa and Chilliwack. He went into private dental practice in Chilliwack, creating a loyal team and an innovative practice for 35 years. Paul was active in his community: in Chilliwack he organized and ran the School District’s “Just Say No” education program, and he was an active member of the Kinsmen. In Victoria, Paul volunteered in an effective citizen counseling program.
Paul loved life! And he could fix anything! Whether it was puttering in his barn on Gabriola, hosting Team Edgemen retreats, or planning a trip for his family, he was never one to sit still. He took his family on cycling trips around PEI, in Europe, and through the Gulf Islands, and with the family of close friends he cycled from Jasper to Banff. He even cycled to California with four amigos, and organized two camping, fishing and kayaking trips in the Broken Islands with friends and family.
In 2008 Paul hiked the Old Inca Trail to Machu Pichu, Peru where he met his future wife Donna Curtis. Married in 2012, they shared a deep unconditional love and respect for each other, which helped them weather the cruelty and indignity of the Alzheimer’s that ultimately took him. Paul was a kind and gentle man and will be remembered for his deep friendships, adventuresome spirit, and amazing sense of humour.
A celebration of Paul’s life will be held on September 23rd, 2023 at 2:00pm in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC. For those wishing to attend via zoom, the link is below:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85094169581?pwd=SUV4b2JSVmxEc3JlcldHWGpTZTFuUT09
In lieu of flowers, donations can be mailed to Citizens Counselling Centre, 941 Kings Road, Victoria, BC V8T 1W7 or at www.citizenscounselling.com
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Genevieve Stonebridge
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Claire Blackburn Donna, Shannon and family, I am so sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. Though we only worked together one year, Paul had an enormous impact on my life. He not only gave me a fantastic introduction to dentistry and set the bar high for future employers, I gained so much life wisdom in that time. Even to this day I remember our conversations. I can empathize with the pain and relief that comes after the indignity of well lived life cut short by dementia. May all your memories carry you through this time. Much love, Claire Blackburn
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brenda wilson Though I hadn’t seen Paul in several years I remember him vividly and fondly. He believed in service and acted on that belief. He joined Citizens’ Counselling as a volunteer, went through the training program, and emerged as a graduate counsellor — more than ready to walk alongside our clients as they explored, grieved and grappled with their life challenges. When he could no longer participate because of his disease we lost a wonderful volunteer counsellor. But I do not doubt he continued to listen, empathize and entertain his family in whatever ways he was able.
Such a lovely picture of him you chose for his obituary! It so captures how I remember him — full of life and warmth.
I know your grief will be great. I am thinking of you Donna, and you Shannon, as you grieve.
Brenda Wilson
former Director, Citizens’ Counselling Centre
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Alan Roaf and Bonnie Johnston Paul was a wonderful person in so many ways: a loving husband and father, a compassionate friend, a caring and dedicated professional and a lover of life. Paul enabled those around him to be themselves and open to new ideas in so many ways. I treasure my time with Paul over many years and know that he is in a good place. Thank you for being in my life, old friend.
Love, Alan Roaf & Bonnie Johnston
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Lorenzo Donato With Caring Thoughts, and Deepest Sympathy
Love Linda,and Lorenzo Donato
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Ken & Gail Mann Donna ,
We are so very sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. Our love and prayers go out to you and your family at this sad time.Ken and Gail Mann
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Jill Walker Donna and family
We are so sorry for your loss on Paul’s passing. He was lucky to have your love – wishing you some peace and time to reflect on your memories together!
Jill and David Walker.
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Doris Clemens Donna, I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m glad I got to see you at the Alzheimer Society that once. It’s been a very long haul for you.
Love and hugs to you and your lovely daughters.
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Crystal and David Stewart Donna we are so sorry for your loss
I will miss the conversations and exploration of music from paul.
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Sharon Ford Donna please accept our sincere condolences. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Love Terry and Sharon Ford
I met Paul in the citizens counselling training program in 2009. He was a delightful human to grow alongside, and was always so gracious to me. Even though he was in his 60s (I think) at the time, and I was in my 20s, he always treated me as an equal often being so complimentary “I am learning a lot from you young people.” I remember with such fondness when he would speak of “his special lady” Donna Curtis, and what a handsome and loving couple they were! Though it has been many years since our paths have crossed I will always have a special spot in my heart for Paul, and am grateful to have met him. Sending loving kindness to “his special lady”, and all the family.
-Genevieve Stonebridge