Paul Nixon Knowlton

25 August 1930 - 21 April 2026

Peacefully, with his family at his side.

Nick was born in Montreal to parents Paul and Isobel. He built his strong work ethic early in life delivering the Montreal Gazette every morning with his brothers James and Peter. After a stint with the Canadian Merchant Navy and a job as a travel agent, Nick revealed his entrepreneurial mettle by starting a small electronics business with a close friend. Their business grew to become one of the largest employers in Hawkesbury, Ontario.

Nick met his wife Hildegard in 1960 and they began married life together in their quaint, old stone house in the country which grew into a busy hobby farm. He eventually moved on from the electronics industry to real estate, enjoying a prosperous career with his wife that included home and farm sales. Nick’s busy work life did not stop him from being a fun-loving father, hobby farmer, horseman, cattle rancher, lumberjack, skier and golfer.

Nick and Hildegard parted with their beloved hobby farm and moved to Ottawa in the early 80’s, where he managed a large office for Royal Lepage. He acquired a restored Model A Ford built the year he was born and could often be seen enjoying his pride and joy with Hildegard on weekend drives with other antique car enthusiasts.

In later years, Nick and Hildegard kept warm and golfed away their winters with many friends while enjoying their second home in Florida.

A born mentor, Nick’s sage guidance, sense of humour, cheerful optimism and warm smile will be greatly missed. He was happiest when family and friends were gathered in his home, always to the soundtrack of his favourite big band and jazz tunes.

Nick is survived by his two children, Ingrid and Scott; their spouses Geoff and Debra; grandchildren Nick, Jake, Isobel and Eric, and great grandchildren Juniper, Shelby and Elowyn.

Nick will be interred beside Hildegard in the Cassburn, Ontario cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a future date.