November 1, 2019
Paul Joseph Bradshaw passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones in his home on November 1st, 2019.
Paul was born into a military family of nine children on February 19th, 1956, and spent most of his young life moving around the eastern half of Canada to where his father was posted. His interest in medicine led him to become a paramedic after highschool; a job that became a precursor to him coming west to pursue safety in industrial construction and operation.
He met Kathy, the love of his life, in Ft. McMurray, Alberta, and they were married eight months later. Their son Cody arrived two years afterwards, followed by their daughter Morgan.
Paul's adventurous nature pervaded every part of his life. He loved Harley- Davidson motorcycles, and found joy on the road. The decision to settle his family in Sylvan Lake was made on a coin toss. When a job was lost, he celebrated the opportunities that he could now pursue. His work took him to many international locations, while he missed his family, he enjoyed seeing the world from a perspective few get to. He enjoyed these locales through his stomach, often describing the places he'd been by describing the food he had eaten.
Paul's generosity and love for others drew people to him. His genuine care and empathy meant he was as willing to share in someone's sorrow as he was their joy. If he could assist someone in need, he was generous to a fault. He enjoyed conversations with strangers as much as with those he loved. When someone spoke, he listened and remembered.
Paul's love for others was outdone only by his joy for life. He was always optimistic, even in his final days. His vibrance and joyous nature often made him the center of attention. When Paul played with his children, or his many nieces and nephews, he was having even more fun than they were.
Most of all, Paul loved his family and they loved him. His wife, children, daughter-in-law Kelly, and grandchildren were the center of his world. While he didn't get to see them as much as he would have liked, Paul loved his brothers and sisters, speaking of them often.
Paul lived a life to be proud of; a life filled with love. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
"We said we'd walk together baby come what may
That come the twilight should we lose our way
If as we're walking a hand should slip free
I'll wait for you
And should I fall behind
Wait for me"
A memorial event for close friends and family will be held at a later date. Paul's Facebook page will be kept open to allow for shared memories or condolences.