January 20, 1936 – January 6, 2022
at the age of 85 years
Edward Murray Paul, 85, of Blind Bay, BC passed away peacefully on January 6, 2022 at Shuswap Lake General Hospital.
Ed aka “Shuswap Ed” was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia to the late John Paul and Matilda Paul (nee Boutilier) on January 20, 1936.
Survived by his beloved wife, Linda Paul (nee Treece), loving father to Cary Graff (Greg, Vernon, BC) and Christopher (Anna, Tsawwassen, BC). Cherished grandfather to Kevin Graff (Katie, Ottawa, ON) and Jamie Graff (London, ON). Grandfather to Christopher Bronswyk (Alison, Chilliwack, BC), Kay-Lynn Dougherty (Barret, Quesnel, BC). Great-grandfather to Danica Bruno and Freya Dougherty.
Ed began his career at Island Airlines in Campbell River, BC in the early 60’s before moving his family to Richmond, BC. Numerous flying jobs kept Ed doing what he loved the most – flying. One job that was most influential for Ed was with West Coast Transmission flying a Falcon 20 under the direction of Mr. Hal O’Keefe.
The early 80’s brought Ed to BC Telephone Company and the beginning of BC Tel Flight Operations. Throughout the years with Ed’s dedication, persistence and knowledge of the business aircraft industry, it has grown to what it is today. From flying the Beaver to the Citation 10, Ed was at the helm.
In 1991, Ed put an indelible mark on the Vancouver Airport by securing 12 acres of prime airport land from Transport Canada to construct an FBO which is known today as Signature Flight Support. Ed’s career involvement also included BC Aviation Council, Airshow Canada and serving as Chairman of Canadian Business Aircraft Association.
Retirement brought Ed to Blind Bay, BC. He loved to play golf, spend summers backpacking with his grandsons, Geocaching and creating woodworking treasures in his workshop. A “bucket list” camping trip to the Yukon and Arctic Ocean in 2018 with his son-in-law and grandsons was definitely a highlight.
Ed will forever be remembered by his generosity and his kind heart.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring in Blind Bay, BC. An additional Celebration of Life will be held in the spring in the Vancouver area. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to Shuswap Lake General Hospital.
Sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. When something traumatic happened in my life Ed was one of the few that was always there for me. Love you 2 Feathers forever. Bruce and Linda Wiens and family.
Ed will be missed by many.
A forefather in many ways for Business Aviation in Canada. His drive and passion for aviation by means of CBAA, or believing in his vision at CYVR for a Fixed Base Operation or his advocacy and leadership building one of the busiest 604 Flight departments in Canada (BC Tel) was never a question as he always kept his eye on the prize.
Wishing his family sympathy during these difficult and somber times.
I’m sure many many people in the business aviation industry are lifting a “Canadian” in the air today and for years to come, toasting the one and only Ed Paul.
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds, – and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of – wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there,
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air…