Donald Paul English

March 4, 1934 – July 20, 2025

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Donald (Paul) English, after a brief stay at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. He will be sadly missed by Joan, his wife of 66 years, and daughters Kim van Bruinessen (Danny) and Terri-Lynn Hayes. Paul’s grandchildren Jenn (Keri), Michael (Lisa), Mitchell (Melissa), Adam, Katie (Shane) and great-grandchildren Michayla, Eleanor, Breanna, Aiden, Landon, Bennett, Henry, Beau, Logan, and one on the way, were the light of his life.

Paul is survived by his two brothers, Clinton (Dawn) and Gaius (Bryan), sisters-in-law Lois and Doreen and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Carmen and Hazel English and siblings Ross, Jack, Glenn, Mark, Mary, and David.

Paul was a farm boy at heart. Born in Harvey Township, he moved to Smith Township when he was five years old and was raised on the family farm. He lived there until after high school, at which time he moved to Peterborough to work. He remained in Peterborough until 1972 when he and his family moved to the country to a farm in Otonabee Township. Paul retired from Quaker Oats in 1994 after 30 years of service. Paul and Joan lived on the farm for 45 years before moving back to Peterborough in 2017.

During his younger years, Paul and his brothers got up to a lot of tom-foolery, but a secret is a secret. Paul loved to have a good time and especially loved to dance. The song Crystal Chandeliers had a special place in his heart and every time it played, Paul and Joan would cut a rug.

Paul’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the apple of his eye. Whether it was a lunch date or as a personal chauffeur to sporting events or just horsing around with the little ones on the floor, he spent time with them at every opportunity.

Our sincere thanks to the PRHC Emergency Room and Palliative Care staff, who provided excellent care and attention during his time there. A special thank-you to Julie in Palliative Care for her compassionate care of Paul and his family.

At Paul’s request, a private family service will be held. He will be laid to rest at Fife Cemetery in Keene, just up the road from the farm he loved so much.

In memory of Paul, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or ALS Society of Canada, two charities that were close to his heart.

Please visit Paul's Book of Memories at www.ashburnhamfuneral.ca