Paul Westman Tucker of Saanich passed away Monday, July 29, 2019, in his home surrounded by his loving family as was his wish.
Paul is survived by his wife, Carol, of 23 years, son Zachariah, daughter Kaitlyn, parents Rod and Tris Tucker, sister Leslie Tucker, nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many other relatives and friends.
Until the age of 12, Paul spent much of his time at his family cottage on Jack’s Lake, Ontario. Some of his fondest memories were created with his family and friends at the lake. His love of the water was born, and his adventurous spirit grew. He has lovingly passed this on to his children.
When Paul had a family of his own, he spent many summer days on his boat with his family at Elk Lake, teaching his children everything from swimming to many water sports including water skiing and wake boarding. We will remember Paul with a smile on his face saying, “Do you want to go for a ski?”. He always made time to be with his family, creating wonderful memories lasting a life time. Paul instilled in his children the love and respect of these beautiful places we call home.
Paul’s love for sports didn’t end on the water but continued on to BMX racing and traveling the Island, racing with his son and daughter at his side. Again, teaching them how to work hard, win humbly and loose with grace. Many vacations were spent throughout our beautiful Island, showing his children how special the place we live in is and to get out and enjoy it.
Paul had a long hockey career, starting in Ontario and continuing when his family moved to B.C. He played competitively from the east coast to the west coast, learning how to work hard, play fair and have fun.
Paul dedicated his life to his family. His passion for sports was evident with his many years volunteering throughout our community. Meeting many wonderful people who were also dedicated to their kids’ sports. Paul coached his son’s hockey team at Pearkes Arena for many years. He was also very involved at Layritz Little League, coaching both his children from T-Ball onward. Paul sat on the board at Layritz for several years and helped keep these great programs in our community. Paul built many special friendships during this time and cherished the moments spent there with our family.
Paul created many special bonds everywhere he went. At work, he always treated his staff with kindness and respect. He never expected anyone to do a job he wasn’t willing to do himself, making life long friendships along the way. He will be missed by many throughout this town as a fair boss with a kind nature and gentle soul.
Later in life, Paul’s adventurous spirit came through again with his passion for motorcycling. He encouraged his wife Carol to get her motorcycle license and they spent many days together traveling the Island together. He even built a carrier for his beloved dog Sadie, to join them on the road!
Paul’s love for family and friends was evident to all. We are saddened his life was cut short but lucky he chose to spend his time here with his family by his side. We are all better people for knowing and loving him.
Our family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses who cared for Paul over the past several years. Also, we would like to acknowledge Victoria Hospice, BC Cancer Society and Island Health nurses for the wonderful care and support given.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 7th, 2019 from 1 pm to 4 pm at Layritz Baseball Park, 4328 Layritz Avenue, Victoria, BC V8Z 7C5. There will be memories shared with food and drinks. As this is a day to celebrate Paul, how better fitting then to have a fun game of scrub! We can see his smiling face at the thought. Please bring your lawn chairs, ball gloves, and happy memories.
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What a loving tribute, from a devoted family. He was well nurtured by his amazing Mom and Dad, and he passed it on to his own family and friends. Rest well Paul.
I am very saddened to here about the passing of this wonderful human that loved working with at the Keg.One of the kindest people I will ever know.To his family who I have met and got to know my heart goes out to you.Love and hugs Carol to you and your beautiful kids.Big T xo
Beautifully written tribute. I knew Paul as a gentleman and devoted family man. I looked up to him for these qualities. Rest in peace brother!
In the few times I got to meet Paul his love for his wife and family was clear. He had a great sense of humour and calming nature about him. The world will not be the same with out him. Sending all of Paul’s family love in this difficult time.
What a lovely demonstration of love for Paul. I learned many things about him that I was unaware of.
You are on my mind.
Cousin Diane from St. George Ontario
Even when he had no words, there was always a smile trying to break through. It was a gift getting to be a part of your family. If only for a brief moment in time. I wish you the best in healing from your loss.
Liz Jenish, RN
Very sad news to hear of his passing. Paul was always a kind and caring man for everyone he met. My condolences to Carol and the entire family.
I had the honour to work with Paul at the Keg in Vancouver and what struck me about him, as was mentioned, was his calm nature. On a busy night even when things around him were going sideways he had a way to not get rattled and this filtered down to the rest of staff. He really was the true definition of a gentleman – caring, considerate, kind and respectful. Thoughts are with Carol, Zachariah and Kaitlyn as well as the rest of the family. Rest well Paul.
A wonderful tribute for Paul–a kind, friendly neighbour. We will miss his smile and greetings! Thinking of you and your family.
Gwen & Wil
A truly heartfelt tribute for Paul -our neighbour who always had a warm hello and a genuine smile. With caring thoughts for Carol, Zach and Katie. Bob & Margaret
The many times Paul, Sadie, Billy and myself shared a walk around Braydon Park left me knowing I had met a very special man. Kindest regards to Carol, Zach and Katie on your loss.
No words for this loss. Paul Tucker was one of my first managers and left a lasting impression on me and everyone he worked with. Paul shaped kindness, compassion and genuine hospitality into my every day world. His wife taught me how to include joy in it! I am baffled by these early losses in our community. Bless you Tucker family. Hold on to your loved ones❤️
I had the pleasure of working at the Keg with Paul as well as playing hockey and slopitch with him.
Tucker was a hard working, positive person, a wall between the posts and all around good man. He left an everlasting impression on me and whoever knew him.
My deepest condolences to his family. You all carry on his legacy.
“Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”
-Eskimo proverb
Even though I had not seen him in years, Paul Tucker was a huge part of my childhood. He was an amazing man, and the best softball coach I ever had. I remember him being so kindhearted and compassionate, always approaching every situation with genuine empathy and care. He knew exactly how to make you feel special and welcome. I will cherish the memories I have with him forever. My heart truly breaks for his family and loved ones. He was a fantastic man who was taken too soon. I am sending my thoughts and love to his family in this difficult time.
Our hearts go out to you as you gather to celebrate Paul’s life. May all the shared memories comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead.
Gord, Sheri and Daniel
I’m so sadden to hear this news. My sincerest condolences. I remember Paul as one of the kindest people I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet. My thoughts and prayers to you Carol and to your family.
I am so sorry for your loss! Paul was a great Mentor to myself at the Keg. He will be missed
I realize that this is belated, but I wanted to leave my condolences as Paul was a great guy who gave me a shot working at the Keg. I showed up for 6 weeks in a row, and didn’t come in on the 7th and he called asking where I was as he had a position for me which I’ll always be grateful for. I hope Carol and family are doing well, I’m so sorry for your loss.
Kevin Griffin