Paul Colvin

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Paul James Colvin on March 15, 2025. He was 69 years old.

Paul was predeceased by his parents, James and Mary “Lyle” (née Blood), and his brother, David. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 48 years, Debra (née Puls), his son Daniel (Correne), his daughter Bridget, and his cherished grandchildren Chloe and Dylan. He also leaves behind his sister Colleen (Ted), sisters-in-law Beverley, Diana (Greg), Cheryl (Marvin), brother-in-law Lew (Lesley), as well as numerous loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Paul’s warm and generous spirit touched many communities over the years, including his tight-knit Wallyball family of 30 years, the Special Olympics BC Burnaby community, the Warner Loat Dog Park crew, and countless friends he made throughout his life.

Born on April 19, 1955, at Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, Paul enjoyed an idyllic childhood growing up in the Alderson community in Coquitlam. A proud graduate of Centennial Secondary School, his life took a wonderful turn when he met Debra, his lifelong partner, whom he married in 1977.

Throughout his career, Paul was known for his adaptability and strong work ethic. He started out as a tire salesman at D&D Tire, later ran his own business, Columbia Business Systems, and spent years in sales and marketing at BC TEL/TELUS. In his later career, he found deep fulfillment as an employment coach for People with Disabilities at posAbilities, a non-profit agency.

Paul was an incredibly devoted father and coach. His involvement in Daniel’s soccer, hockey, baseball, and lacrosse sparked a lifelong passion for coaching. In 1999, he shifted his focus to Special Olympics BC Burnaby, where he coached baseball and curling, and supported Bridget in many of her sports. Paul was an active and proud dad from day one and carried that same energy into grandparenthood, taking Chloe and Dylan on countless outdoor adventures.

One of Paul’s greatest joys was his Wallyball family. What started as a casual Friday night game in 1995 evolved into a 30-year tradition filled with friendships, laughter, and legendary parties—with Paul always at the center, bringing the music, humor, and fun.

Paul was also an avid square dancer, learning how to dance with Chuckwagon 8s and later joining Brent’s Bunch, where he gained another close-knit group of friends.

His passion for curling began in 2011 when he was encouraged to play in order to grow as a Special Olympics coach. He curled at Delta Thistle and Royal City Curling Clubs, immersing himself in the sport until arthritis forced him to step back.

Paul and Debra shared a love for traveling—from camping in their trailer to cruising and venturing across Canada, the USA (especially Disney World and a Disney Cruise with family), a France, England, Ireland (family heritage trip), Kenya & Tanzania, and beyond.

A lifelong sports fan, Paul had a special place in his heart for the Vancouver Canucks hockey & New York Yankees baseball teams. He could talk sports to anyone all day long!

Five years ago, Paul welcomed Chase, a Formosan Mountain Dog, into his life, forming an instant and unbreakable bond. Their daily routine at Warner Loat Dog Park brought him new friendships and a deep sense of community. Later, when Frankie the Frenchie joined Daniel’s family, Paul’s heart expanded once again, proving his love for dogs was as boundless as his love for people.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 5th, at 11:00 AM at Dwelling Place Church, 1460 Lansdowne Drive in Coquitlam.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Special Olympics BC Burnaby , an organization close to Paul’s heart.

Paul lived fully, loved deeply, and left a lasting impact on everyone he met. He will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.