Paul Francis Alexander McDonald

Paul McDonald passed away peacefully at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto on May 25, 2016 at age 90. He is survived by his sisters Mary Haney (Frank) and Annetta Murphy (John), his grandsons Stephen and Andrew McDonald and their mother Jane along with his many nephews and nieces and great nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his wife Joan Baker McDonald, son Lorne Charles McDonald, his long time companion Katharine McKeen, and his siblings Sylvia, Margaret, Cora, Wallace (Helen), Eileen Coghlan (Gerry), Neil (Mary), and Lorne and his mother and father Wallace and Cora (Desjardins) McDonald. Paul’s father served in the Quebec legislature and as a member of parliament from 1920-1945.

Born in Chapeau, Quebec, Paul was proud of his Ottawa Valley roots and his diverse Canadian ancestry, and was forever faithful to his religion. Paul had a life-long interest in music, sports, writing and reading but his greatest interest was the well-being of his family. He had a deep and genuine love of family, and made extraordinary efforts to keep up with his large circle of family and friends, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Among his many accomplishments, Paul received a Bachelor of Arts from St. Patrick’s College as well as a Bachelor of Civil Law from McGill University and he was a member of the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve. Paul married Joan Baker in 1952 and had a son, Lorne in 1957. Starting as Vice President of the Montreal Stock Exchange Paul’s career in investments and finance spanned over 60 years continuing to work well into his 80’s holding directorships in a number of public companies. Paul lived most of his adult life in Montreal, but also in Calgary and Toronto. He travelled extensively throughout North America and Europe and continued to do so right up until his 90th birthday.

Paul was worldly and had the gift of eloquence. When he spoke, it was music and poetry all together. His aristocratic carriage, clear baritone voice and playful humour will be missed by all. A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2016 at 3 p.m. at the R.S. Kane Funeral Home (6150 Yonge St., at Goulding, south of Steeles). Arrangements for service and burial in Montreal to be confirmed.