Paul Michael Brady

Paul is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Mary: his four children Richard (Donna), LoriAnn (Doug), Alan (Marie) and Vincent (Michelle); his ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren as well as his sister Patsy (Elwood). His parents predeceased him, sisters Grace and Sheila and brothers Richard (Dick) and Alan (Cork).

Dad was born in Sault Ste Marie, ON, on August 16, 1929, but grew up in Terantorus just outside the Sault. Dad had an adventurous youth with his brothers and sisters and his best friend, Charlie Egglesfield. Dad enjoyed being busy with school, paper routes, and farm chores. He claims he worked harder than most, although there were some questions about whether he single-handedly cleared the garden of as many tons of rocks as his stories suggested.

In his teen years, Dad worked with Department of Lands and Forests in Northwestern Ontario with his brother Dick and Uncle. It was during this time that he developed an interest in airplanes. When Dad was 18 years old, his mother told him to apply at Bell Canada, and Dad ended up working for them for 40 years. Throughout his career, he travelled countless miles between the Sault and the Manitoba border and did many interesting and exciting things from digging ditches to bringing long distance service to the Kenora area to establish the microwave system from Sault Ste Marie to the Manitoba border.

On one of these trips, he stopped in Vermillion Bay, ON, where he met the love of his life, Mary, who was working as a switchboard operator. Early in their marriage, they lived in Fort Frances and then moved to Thunder Bay, where they continued good happy life. We all had special times at the camp on Lake Shebandowan, enjoying almost every summer weekend and vacation, often with Uncle Cork. Dad spent many happy hours clearing trees with a block and tackle, burning brush, cutting grass and listening to the loons. He also loved sailing and boating.

Once we children moved away from Thunder Bay, Mom and Dad decided to move to Winnipeg, which was more central to us kids. Winnipeg was the perfect place for them at the ideal time, another blessing in their golden years together.

Dad was a wonderful father. Although he often worked out of town when we were little, he always made time for us when he came home. When we were little, Dad told us stories about Phineous Finn the Leprechaun, he sang songs with us, Dad taught the boys about mechanical things, he took us camping, and we hiked through the bush on one-day adventures.

Dad was a wonderful grandfather. He was always interested in their lives, and when they were young, he went to many kindergarten classes to sing his particular song with each child – Mr. Gunderbeck. They helped him roll the coins collected from various charities Dad volunteered for, he took them to Robin’s donuts for a treat and to the general store at Lake Shebanbdowan for candy. As the great-grandchildren came along, he enjoyed them when they visited and through the pictures everyone sent.

In his later years, Dad would often go out on weekends with Vincent, and they would listen to classic old country songs with Dad singing along. He and Doug would also regularly go to Tim Horton’s for a coffee, and when Dad didn’t go out because of the pandemic, Doug would stop by with a coffee lighting up Dad’s face. LoriAnn and Dad also spent time together Sunday mornings going to church. Richard and Alan came for visits, called often and shared numerous pictures of their children and grandchildren.

Dad joined the Knights of Columbus in 1952 and was a Knight of the 3rd Degree. In Winnipeg, he was an active member of the Our Lady of the Prairie Council #5264 that operated out of Mary Mother of the Church. Dad helped with various KofC events, garage sales, and several years would regularly visit any sick Brothers in hospital or housebound. He was particularly committed to supporting the regular Winnipeg Harvest food donation program run by his brother Knights and enjoyed the fraternity, spirituality and community.

Dad was a man of personal faith, and his philosophy was kindness and service to others, love of family and gentle humour to bring smiles and laughter. Dad was an example of an honourable man to all who knew him.

In December 2020, Dad had a brief stay at Grace Hospital. Dad was called to his Lord with dignity, peace, and love. His family and friends say goodbye knowing he is still with us in spirit.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mare for many years of care and friendship, and Dr. George and the staff of CAU at Grace Hospital for their care and compassion in Dad’s final days.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date when the family can gather together.

Memorial contributions can be made to Winnipeg Harvest or a charity of your choice.

Please leave memories and condolences as a keepsake for the family.