Contributions to the tribute of Paul Conners

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Tuesday, November 16, 2021

To all of Paul's family and friends , my deepest condolences in your time of grief. I worked with Paul particularily with our Union and saw him as very bright,articulate and had a great sense of humour. Paul and I often spoke of our shared love of cottage life and nature I will miss him dearly

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Hilary Leps lit a candle

Sunday, November 14, 2021

To the family of Paul Conners

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Hilary Leps posted a condolence

Sunday, November 14, 2021

14/11/21 Paul Conners/ family Conners: This news gutted me, to the core! I choked up , I did not want to even believe it. I would not! I was forwarded an email via work that Paul had passed away and that news I got around 330 of a work day …it broke my heart and I could barely concentrate that afternoon. I had to call another friend and she consoled me and we spent time remembering Conners and our work lives together It seemed surreal because this is some one close to me, someone in my circle! I was so mad because me and Conners( that was what I called him) had been friends since GMESS, like not from the early days but maybe in the last 7 or 8 years Conners was like the big brother I never had, the work friend who looked out for me and every morning we had a breakfast run and waited till the last minute to go into the office because we were always having great discussions about every topic under the sun! Conners was erudite, so intelligent , intellectual and provactive the way those with high IQs can be ,and me , always wondering if he ever knew how much I was in awe of all of that, wondering too if he realized I was never on the same level? He always looked out for me, both inside the office and outside; he insisted on always giving me a ride even though I live 4 bus stops from GMESS!! He taught me to approach decisions from every angle, to look at every option and to assess from an intellectual framework. Conners Sense of humour was not one I grasped quickly but when I did, he was so sharp and quick witted that I was in stitches whenever he was in the jokester mood. We were on a team together at GMESS, and he was a great team mate, even if he was busy with union work or casework, he always spoke to people and gave them his time, his ear, his attention People say you should live life with no regrets and for many of us , no matter how much we try we may have one or two! I was in touch with Conners a while after he retired and all of this year except I didn’t call in October this year, not for lack of willingness but just not paying attention and being in my own world. I regret in the moment I should have called to say hey Conners how are you buddy? Conners was such a good friend to me, and even when I annoyed him or bothered him he never got angry,ever; even the times I was too loud and hyped on my morning coffee in the car he’d just look at me and use, to me the irritating “Hil can you take it down a bit?” Gesture And so to reward him I assigned him the “Turn it down for what” ring tone! And I saw my contacts list in my phone the other day and checked the last time we spoke and he was the one who called me in September! I regret not being a better friend, and despite how isolating in the pandemic it has has made us more introverted, I am at a space where if I think of you now I will call or if I need to reach out I just do it in the moment! I no longer hesitate nor put it off. I don’t want this regret! Conners was one of my best friends and a team mate and like a brother, he was always positive and supportive In the office he worked tirelessly for clients and caseworkers alike; he was social and approachable to everyone. Conners is only one of two people in my work life who ever called me Hil, and that is the name only my dad called me growing up, but I never told Conners that and I always felt like he really knew me as a person and he saw me , really saw me , flaws and all . I known he always looked out for me.! I may not ever have been on the same level as Conners but this man could befriend anyone regardless of status or race or creed and make you feel st ease. Conners had a life outside of work and I know it was also a full and busy life. I wish that he knew how much of an impact he had on the world!!! I know that I did thank him for wanting to go on breakfast runs or coffee pick ups but did he really know he was so much more than a co worker?. I’m eternally grateful to have known him and to be considered a friend because people like him are rare and so extraordinary they don’t even know it! I’m so very sad to know we won’t ever have those talks again and I won’t be able to meet up post pandemic; we had agreed that was on the horizon….my heart hurts for the loss and for his wife Audrey and his family. I’m devastated at the loss of my friend and I am so sorry for not being there these last few weeks! I miss you hella forever Conners! You will always be in my thoughts and WTH man, we had some great conversations and great debates and so much laughing , so many times he just made the unbearable more bearable! I’m so missing you Conners! I miss you, my brother, my friend Sincerely Hilary Leps Forever friends/co workers/humans on this temporary stage called life .

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Genane Peniak posted a condolence

Monday, November 8, 2021

We are so sorry to lose such a special friend in Paul. I fondly remember Paul’s great sense of humour, wit and funny stories, often with him as the unsuspecting punchline when he would share stories about work and day to day. His salmon cedar plank dinners and watching the extended versions of Lord of the Rings. I will cherish those memories greatly. Mark and I are truly sorry for this great loss and I wish, like so many, that we had more time together. God knows our timing and I’m grateful for the memories we do share. Always in our hearts. Genane and Mark

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Genane Peniak posted a symbolic gesture

Monday, November 8, 2021

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Neha Singh posted a condolence

Sunday, November 7, 2021

Audrey ….Paul’s eyes lit up when he talked about you. I always laughed as he never ever complained about you. He saw goodness in everyone. I will miss his laughter, once in a while phone call where he would push me to look into financial aspects etc. He is one person who never ever told me to give up on my parent just like he never did for his own parents. I loved it when just like a kid he would show off his highlighted hair. I loved his story telling skills and empathy. I can’t even imagine what you are going through Audrey. Hang in there. May you get strength to deal with such terrible loss. May his soul RIP.

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David Conners uploaded photo(s)

Saturday, November 6, 2021

It was very sad to hear of Paul’s passing. So many wonderful memories came back to me, especially in our younger days. Paul was my big cousin, and I looked up to him to show me the ‘cool’ ways. From the sooped up Plymouth Horizon to the rock albums and the beer, Paul was the example of ‘cool’ for me. We had great times both at the cottage on Buck Lake ( hanging out in the bunk house and learning to water ski) and in Toronto with Glenn and their friends playing Dungeon and Dragons and sneaking out of our rooms in the middle of the night on Christmas Eve to check out our presents. It was all good and I always loved spending time with Paul. I will miss his ‘ out of the blue’ calls, even though after an hour I usually had to put an end to them. I will cherish all my memories and pictures ( I included one from our younger days) and think of Paul often, In prayers, Dave

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Amanda Agnel Noah & Isaac posted a symbolic gesture

Friday, November 5, 2021

As you know words cannot describe the countless memories we have of spending time with you both. We are deeply saddened but knowing Paul he wouldn't want us to be. There are so many adjectives I can use to describe Paul. But during our friendship the ones that come to mind the most would be his "intelligent" sense of humour, his passion to fight for people's human rights and his lust for life. I learnt so much from him..especially all the knowledge he gained from his many travels & adventures and am happy to say we shared alot of common ground. What I admire about him was his fearlessness. We will truly miss him especially when we visit Toronto next. We love you and are always here all the way in Melbourne...but just a phone call away...

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Margaret Farrow lit a candle

Friday, November 5, 2021

Audrey, our sincere condolences. Paul was someone that had an incredible sense of humour and humanity. We were colleagues and friends for quite a few years. Paul always knew how to push the right buttons for the right people. He would end up in my office for hours talking about work, his many wild life experiences, his views on life, politics, and many more topics! Paul was a formidable debater. He loved to take the opposite view of almost anything just for the heck of it. Then laugh like crazy when he knew he had you. We were friends. Which meant a lot to Paul. We had some serious talks about his health, and his retirement. I remember him talking fondly of you many times. He was your champion Audrey. I will miss him. Paul called a few times after he retired and even when Peter and I moved out west, Paul and I talked to catch up. That was who he was. Audrey, I hope you know what an impact Paul had on all those that he worked with and those who called Paul a friend. Know that our prayers are for you and your family. Paul, my friend, thank you for touching our lives and making them even richer. Peace to you Margaret Farrow

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Cory Innes posted a condolence

Friday, November 5, 2021

I am very saddened to hear of Paul's passing and wish to send my deepest condolences to Audrey and all the family. Over the many years of working with Paul he always had a laugh at hand, even at the most trying of times. His practical jokes could torment us in a fun way, and he accepted the pranks in return with a light heart. He shared many a story and would always lend and ear when needed. When I would speak of the aggravations of having a boy he would give me his devilish grin, letting me know full well that he approved of whatever antics were going on. Paul touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed. Cory Innes

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Cindy Lai posted a condolence

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Sending my condolences to your family. I remember Paul's friendliness and presence as a volunteer at the Language Cafe. He was a nice addition to the Language Cafe.

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Glenn lit a candle

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Audrey, in this challenging time and even though I continue to struggle with this, sharing memories can fill our hearts with happiness and bring a smile to our face, and Paul would want that. Paul, my brother, my mentor, my pillar… My mind has gone all the way back to Cartier Crescent and street hockey, the gang, and even the familiar cry of “D-I”. And then there were the formative years at Buck Luck – forts, bonfires, bears, porcupines, and moose oh my. And of course that windsurfing hail storm when you got stranded in the middle of the lake and us back at the cottage were so worried, but when we got to you, you simply asked “what took so long?”! St. Louis - where you cleared the path for your little brother; and you were also my protector in a foreign land. I’m not sure I ever thanked you for that but I know in my heart you knew I was very appreciative. You were my biggest supporter in everything I went into and never stopped challenging me to be better. I even remember you tricking Principia in order to get me into my first concert (even though you thought KISS was a flash in the pan)! You were an inspiration to me when I was always getting into trouble…, and for all the times you had my back; I thank you again. First dates, music, learning to drive, college, parties, philosophical marathons, sports, games, and laughter; laughter so hard that our bellies hurt! It was the ultimate tribute to our relationship Paul. And your niece, you and her are like two peas in a pod, and it always made everyone smile when you two were together! I miss you a lot Paul, and that will never fade. You will be in my heart and my mind forever. Rest in peace my brother. The journey was an absolute pleasure. Glenn

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Tammy lit a candle

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

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Imelda Buluran donated to ST MARY'S GENERAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION KITCHENER-WATERLOO

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart.

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Zoe Pateras lit a candle

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

I was lucky enough to work with Paul and got a chance to see what a great man he was. He knew how to push the envelope and challenge management, he reminded me daily " clock out there Z, your day only consists of 7 paid hours, you are just a number here, go home to your kids". He pushed for the safety of other even if they didn't think they needed it, and for that I thank him for. His wit and humor will never be forgotten, he will be dearly missed and wanted to extend my sympathies to you and the family Zoe Pateras

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Tammy posted a condolence

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

My deepest condolences to Audrey and the family. My heart is hurting to hear of this news, so so sad. Sending love and light to the family, I hope you can find comfort in all your beautiful memories shared together. I first met Paul 18 years ago in 2004 when I first started with the City at East York office, now known as Golden Mile. His quirky, comedic and kind personality was comforting when I was feeling nervous on my first day. I knew right off the bat, I was in good hands at that office surrounded by some pretty awesome people. He and a few others were always there to help me maneuver through the policies and system we used daily. I always felt he was someone I could go to for help with anything without judgement. Even on those days when the workload was heavy and I was stressed, he always had something funny to say to makes us all laugh. Some of the best memories with Paul were the little tricks he would play on us. I remember going to an appointment and coming back to my desk and my mouse wouldn’t work. I could not get the icon to show on my desk top, I checked the cord and it was plugged in. I kept clicking and clicking and nothing. I was so confused and finally after a couple of minutes I turned it over to see the bottom had been tapped. I laughed so much, all while he was at his desk laughing to himself. Waiting to see how long it would take for me to figure it out. Or my keyboard wouldn’t work and of course it had been unplugged, LOL. Oh boy did he make the work environment so much more fun and entertaining. I remember a colleague and I placed a bunch of empty water bottles in his overhead compartment when he was off on holidays. The excitement we had thinking we caught him at his own game. Our colleague Cory wrapped his keyboard and monitor with Christmas paper, omg too funny! The look he must have had on his face when he opened that overhead, I wish I had been there! He got a good laugh out of that, we had some good times at East York! He was well rounded and I enjoyed talking about global issues with him. He was brilliant and knowledgeable, he was one of a kind, an amazing man. He will be truly missed, sending love and light to the family. Rest easy my friend. Tammy

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Gio Gunawan lit a candle

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Here's to Paul, a good man and a good brother in law. Thank you for the fun times we shared as a family together.

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JOSEPH L LO lit a candle

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Our deepest and sincere condolences to Audrey for the loss of your beloved Paul. We cherish the moments we always meet at Mandarin restaurant and at japanese restaurants, hope he will find better eating places up there. Audrey , we pray that the good Lord will give you His consolation and peace , and my He give Paul his eternal rest and happiness. auntie Letty and uncle Joe.

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Maureen G. posted a condolence

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

These past few days as memories of Paul aka Cap'n Pufnstuf came flooding in, it's hard to decide which were my top favourites of my brother-in-law. I think my most fun memory of him was when the 2 of us went to the Casa Loma haunted house together years ago, and no matter how I tried to persuade my sister (Audrey), she refused to go. I was screaming my head off the whole time, grabbing the back of his jacket, asking him to please go first so he'll be the target and I can hide behind him, to which he happily agreed since he said he wasn't scared. True enough, he was unflappable, I'm sure irritating the hard-working actors who tried their best to startle him yet only to get a chuckle from him in return. I made up for it though by screaming enough for 2 people. Maybe more. We laughed so hard, well, mostly he laughed at my reactions, and through that I realized should there be any zombie apocalpyse, I'd want him on my team. I am very blessed to have had Paul as a brother-in-law, and to have such an abundance of both fun and funny memories to choose from whenever I think of him. May he rest in peace and I hope he knew how much he was loved by our family.

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Paul Djaja lit a candle

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Dear Audrey, please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of beloved Paul Conners. We are still trying to process this sad news. We know that this time is really tough for you, as you've not only lost your life partner but also lost your best friend. Paul was a good man, a caring husband and a nice son in-law. He was also a good companion and very knowledgeable of many topics ie: social issues and politics. We will always treasure the wonderful times we had with him. "Eternal rest grant unto him O,Lord and let perpetual light shine on him" and may his soul rest in peace. Paul Conners' memory will live on in our hearts forever. Love and prayers, Dad and Mom - Paul and Jenny Djaja.

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Julie Gray posted a condolence

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

I will always remember Paul for his kindness and his great Sense of humour. His vast knowledge helped me tremendously during my time when I needed his help. Opening his home to celebrate my birthday. And was lovingly known to the girls at Markham Veterinary Clinic as chef Paul as he would always create wonderful meals for us. He would also surprise me with food from the city as he knew how much I loved food from different cultures. Pail was an amazing man and will be missed.

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The family of Paul Conners uploaded a photo

Monday, November 1, 2021

Paul Conners

1959 - 2021