Died peacefully September 21, 2025 in Oshawa, surrounded by family. He leaves behind his daughter, Sacha Taylor Thoman (Michael) and grandchildren, Macgregor and James Thoman; sister, Jane Moody of Chester, NS, a niece in Montana, nephews in Ontario and BC. He was predeceased by his son Christopher and sister Elizabeth Hulbert (John) of Chalk River.
Paul grew up in Winnipeg where he attended Robert H Smith and Ravenscourt schools. Significant mention to Lorraine Code Moody, his fathers second wife who helped bring him up from age 8. Paul graduated from Royal Roads, then RMC in 1956, he served as a pilot in the RCAF and RCN. He graduated from University of Toronto in 1957 in civil engineering. He worked on various engineering projects in Toronto and Winnipeg between 1957 and 1978. In 1963, Paul married Vivienne Ann Brownell of Winnipeg, and together they had 2 children, Sacha and Christopher.
Paul switched to a public service career in 1978 in Yellowknife, as Deputy Minister of Public Works, NWT (1978-1983) and Deputy Minister for Health, Social Services and Corrections (1983-1988). Living in the north was exhilarating, highlighted by skiing, canoe trips and hikes. He loved its natural beauty.
In 1988, they moved to Toronto where he returned to the private sector as a registered trader at the Toronto Futures Exchange (1989-1996). Work was a satisfying mix of public and private sectors, enriched by his wonderful wife Vivienne, children and grandchildren.
Paul retired to a unique home on Amherst Island, designed by architect, Leslie Stechesen, where they entertained friends and family, walked the beach, enjoyed bonfires and picnics, and taught grandsons to drive his truck. His joy lay in unflagging enthusiasm for listening to and encouraging family and friends in adventures. He always wanted to hear what everyone was up to, which led to hours of fun discussions and laughter. Paul was active and involved until the end. He was our bellwether and will be deeply missed.
In accordance with Paul’s wishes, we will hold a Celebration of Life at Sacha and Mike Thoman’s home in Whitby on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at 12:00pm, remarks at 1:00pm.
