For those who cannot attend in person you are invited to attend virtually via live stream: https://foveo.stream/beechwood/paul-puritt
Paul Puritt was born at St. Luc Hospital in Montreal on 28 July 1938. He passed away peacefully at the Ottawa General Hospital on the evening of 23 December 2022 at the age of 84.
Paul’s warm personality, charisma, wit, and sharp intellect touched many people throughout his long life. He loved telling jokes and stories, wordplay of all kinds, crossword puzzles, and bamboozling kids and adults alike with his signature penny trick. He read voraciously and held strong views on the ethical, social, and political issues of the day.
He obtained his PhD in Anthropology from the University of Illinois, with a dissertation on the Meru People of Tanzania, and then taught at several universities in the USA and Canada. As a member of TCLSAC Toronto, CIDMAA Montreal, and as regional director at Oxfam, he played an active role mobilizing Canadian civil society in support of national liberation movements in Tanzania, Mozambique and South Africa.
In the mid-80s, Paul joined the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) as project planner in the International Department, where he collaborated with trade unions first in Africa, and later in Asia and the Middle East, leaving an indelible mark as a popular trade union educator and leader. He oversaw projects aimed at abolishing child labour, promoting gender equity, and advancing labour rights. Throughout his working years, Paul developed many lifelong friendships and kept in touch with numerous friends around the world.
He was loved by many and will be missed by many, particularly Anna, his partner of twenty years, his sons and their wives, Edan and Judy, Jeffrey and Annette, his step-son Jan and Rav, as well as his 6 grandchildren Alicia, Calvin (Ksenia), Daniel (Kenzie), Joseph (Nicki), Alexa, Nathan (Serena), and his great-grandson Matteo. He will also be sadly missed by his siblings, Larry (Betty), Fredda, Marlene (Antony), Howard (Jackie), and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
The family is deeply grateful to the nursing staff of the Acute Monitoring Area (AMA) of the Ottawa General Hospital for their attentive and compassionate care of Paul, as well as to his doctors.
Reflecting Paul’s wishes, a memorial party to celebrate his long and rich life will be held on February 4, 2023 from 12:00pm to 3:00pm.
Click here to register to the live stream: https://foveo.stream/beechwood/paul-puritt
Donations in Paul’s memory may be made to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind or the Center for Macular Research at the University of British Columbia.
Digital Guestbook
Maria Pikus
Maria Pikus
Paul was a character like no other. He has made a mark in this world and most definitely in this neighborhood. He will live on in our memories.
Yves parisien
will miss trading puns & pleasantries with him as we met on the street
Laura Cohen
It's hard to capture a friendship with Paul in a few words. Like everyone, there is always a special memory with Paul, something outrageous that he said, or just his big personality. I was lucky to have many years of friendship with Paul and with that friendship came adventure. One memory that stands out was a dinner in East Jerusalem at a secret restaurant that only those in the know knew about, that of course included Paul.
I am sending my love to all that loved Paul, he will be missed.
Ambet Yuson
Paul was a strong advocate of labour rights and especially as part of the Canadian Labour Congress, contributed significantly to empower the working class and fighting for their rights. He supported various trade union development projects around the world including the BWI campaign to stop child labour in India. He touched many lives as he had a heart full of compassion and concern. The BWI remembers Paul’s immense contributions to the international trade union movement and to promoting global solidarity. We pay tribute to the wonderful human being that Paul was and shall always remember him for his cheerfulness, friendship and fighting spirit. With deepest condolences & solidarity - Building and Wood Workers International.
Gretta Taylor
It was so moving to hear the eulogies for Paul today. He obviously touched so many members of his family, friends, and colleagues in a profound and memorable way. It was beautiful to hear him remembered with so much love, and to feel the breadth and depth of his impact and legacy. May he rest in peace and power. Sending so much love to those who miss him and mourn him, to Anna and family love Gretta and Steve
Miriam Taylor
What a beautiful service. I learnt so much about aspects of Paul’s life. His life’s work making the work a better place, his friendship and camaraderie and relationship to his grandchildren were lovely to hear about. Much love to all. Milou
Marcy and Jack Zeltzer
While we regret the passing of or dear Cousin , we rejoice in the life well lived by this most unique individual. Always in our heart, Marcy and Jackie Zeltzer
Bisia Taylor
We were so sorry not to be able to attend today's celebration of Paul's life and were thankful to attend the livestream. So many touching testimonials from family and friends. We came to know Paul later in his life, through Anna. I particularly remember his colourful stories, the warmth and wit that he brought to the numerous family gatherings. He will be sorely missed!
Bisia and Christian
Harvey Goldenberg
Rip
Paul was a character like no other. He has made a mark in this world and most definitely in this neighborhood. He will live on in our memories.