Paul loved his friends who were really family in California, but he was always a proud Canadian. He even had the pleasure of watching another Trudeau win an election to become Prime Minister by being more decent than the other guy, by being more Canadian. This cartoon says it all as a Friendly Giant invites us to curl up in that chair in front of the fireplace and watch a Canadian beat the Russians in our game and then go on to watch the painful courage of a fight with a true foe, cancer, take ordinary extraordinary citizens. 

Paul's pure love of Clare made her feel special as he encouraged her dreams and exploration of her considerable talents. The video she made for him shows her deeper understanding of a haunting and beautiful Canadian song, just as she shines a light on the beautiful soul of Uncle Paul. 

Please follow the link to Clare's video in the post beneath this one. 

https://youtu.be/Yu758A1T2Ns

Did we really need these every year? Paul thinks not. 

The fro days of the seventies. He looks thrilled to be shoved into this pic. 

This one is too cruel to publish, but that's why we did it. 

The expression is so funny because it has stayed the same. 

Paul looking like he's trying to figure out something. Many of you will recognize that expression. 

Until 1966, we were three. I love his beautiful face. The smile never changed. 

As this picture makes clear, Paul was always explaining something.  This is one of our family's favourite pictures of Paul and Kathleen. 

Mid-September 1974 and the morning announcements at our high school ended with a list of names of the students who were to appear in a certain classroom at noon. Sure enough, Paul Hurley was one of the names but, to my surprise, so was Kathleen Hurley. I appeared at the correct time and place, terrified, and was simply told to take a seat. Paul was one the last to show up and boomed into the room saying “I sure hope it’s not the “God award”. Apparently I was the only person in the school not in grade 9 who didn’t know this list was those who had won school awards for the previous year. (The “God Award” was the Award given to the student who most exemplified the Ideals and Principles of Nicholson Catholic College in their daily lives or something like that.) Paul’s comment was greeted by Sister Teresa’s steely glare and “sit Mr. Hurley, quickly”.
Paul had just started grade 11, and I, 11 months younger, was in grade 10. Paul won the “most improved student” that year. He did win a few more awards throughout his high school career but I know the one he coveted the most – The Best Actor Award. Our school had one play each year. It was chosen by, directed by, cast by and generally controlled by Sister Fleurette (Flossie) who had once met Sir Laurence Olivier so was the only one qualified for any school drama production. Paul did get a lead in the play in grade 13. He was brilliant! He commanded the stage, he had people rolling in the aisles (it was a serious drama!) I was so proud! And yes, he did deserve and did win the award for Best Actor.

And the “God Award”? I received it that year and a couple of others as well – I never had a foot on stage, but I ask those who know me – who was truly the best actor in the family!

So many stories, so many memories – our hearts are shattered. So far away from home. Thanks for watching out for him in California – we know he loved it there and had dear friends and colleagues. I’m glad we shared.

Paul was the kind the person who was always ready to offer support and kindness. He shared his wisdoms freely and, believe me, his knowledge seemed to know no bounds. He had a brilliant mind and a huge heart. I'll miss him dearly, but I know his energy and love lives on forever through all the hearts he's touched. Thank you, Paul, for being wonderful human being.