Paul Joseph Collier

After 82 years on this merry-go-round, on August 5th, 2023, the final chapter in the life of Paul Joseph Collier was written. But, for those he held so dear - his wife Judy (nee Fleet); his children, Donna (Ken McPhee) in Irish Cove, Denise, and Craig in Halifax; his grandchildren, Jordan Marsh (Stephanie Hayward), Joanna Marsh (Peter Smith), Cameron and Benjamin MacDonald; and his great granddaughter, Maxine Marsh - his story will live on. We will fondly recall his tales of playing baseball and hockey, his hunting and fishing trips, and his days spent golfing with Mum.

Dad did things his way – he was born, lived, and died in his beloved Shad Bay. Born on July 13, 1941, he was the youngest son of William and Marjorie Collier. His brothers Jimmy (Teresa) and David (Ann), like his parents, have gone before him. He met his strawberry blonde beauty in 1959 and they spent the next 64 years together. Family was everything to Dad and he was always so proud of our accomplishments. Anyone who knew him knew he was quick witted and not afraid to speak his mind – and boy, he loved to laugh!! He took such pride in “playing” in his yard and looked forward to “Big Puzzle Day” every Saturday when he would do the New York Times Crossword. Music was a big part of our home; we loved when Dad would sing to Mum while strumming his guitar. A talent for rhyme resulted in many poems that were shared over the years – some tender, but most with lots of laughter. A huge sports fan, he never missed watching his New York Yankees and Toronto Maple Leafs.

Others to carry on his story include sister-in-law Shirley (late Derek Bowering); brothers-in-law Wayne Fleet (Cathy), Paul Fleet (Wendy); as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

As Dad requested, there will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place, care of J.A Snow Funeral Home. Donations to the Canadian Red Cross in Paul’s memory would be greatly appreciated.

Special thanks to the Red Cross, VON, and Palliative Care – all of whom made Dad’s final days at home as comfortable as possible.

Our world will be forever sadder, but the sky at night will be brighter as it gains a new star: for that is what you are to us.

And now, from the man himself:

I had a good life, with a wonderful wife,

And three kids of whom I am proud.

There will be no funeral, no burial or such,

Don’t wrap me in a shroud.

Wherever I go - be it down, be it up…

Come on, Toronto - win the damn Stanley Cup!