"A real character"
Paul Bartosh passed away peacefully with the love of his life, Joyce — his wife of an amazing 72 years — at his side, holding his hand and singing his favourite song, Blue Spanish Eyes.
Dad was a man of his times who embraced life full steam ahead. He always loved Vancouver but spent most of his years in Edmonton, doing whatever was needed to care for his family, including driving a taxi in early days to working for the Edmonton Public School Board at the end of his career.
World War II was an exciting time for him. Even though he was underage, he gladly enlisted in the navy, where he was trained in submarine detection. He also worked as a riveter building Liberty Ships in North Vancouver. Dad was a stylish dresser; a super skater who loved playing and watching hockey; a smooth dancer, especially when he danced with mom; and a car buff to his final days.
He was born with a deck of cards in his hands and the card smarts to match. "Cribbage" was his middle name. A keen reader — especially of crime thrillers — and meticulous recycler, dad loved his dogs and a cold beer. He also appreciated anything well-made: cars, tools, clothes, and especially mom's meals. His hand-carved walking sticks from Alberta willow are in use far and wide, and tales of his many adventures, from climbing trees to travelling the four winds, remain alive and well in many hearts.
Paul was a great husband and father; an honest, fair-minded man who always championed the underdog. He maintained his optimism, sense of humour and playfulness right to the end. He will be missed and always remembered by his three children, Paulette (Graham), Glenda (Peter), and Jordan; grandchildren Scott (Michelle), Mark (Krista) and Lee; great-grandchildren Ian, Fischer, Noah and Piper; along with the many other family members and friends who knew and loved him over his remarkable 93 years.
Dad loved learning about the universe and will be enjoying his time in the cosmos free from his failing body, and running into his old dog, Rex, and the many relatives and good friends who pre-deceased him, including his twin brother, Peter. Look out Grace and Bill; Nettie and Vic; and Bud and Brian: he's got a deck of cards with him!
At Paul's request, there will be no service. But dad would love it if you made donations in his name to your local S.P.C.A.
Thank you to the caring staff at Evergreen Terraces in White Rock.
When the time comes, Paul's ashes will be interred at Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery along with those of his dear Joyce.