Keptin Melvin Paul
Born In: Sydney
Passed in: Membertou
Passed on: November 19th, 2014
It is great sadness that we announce the passing of our loving dad Keptin Melvin Daniel Paul who, after braving serious health issues, died peacefully on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2014, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital with family members by his side.
Born in Sydney, he was the son of the late Isabel (nee Stevens) and Noel J. Paul.
A devout Christian in his lifetime, he was a member of the St. Anne’s Mission Church, and St. Anthony Daniel parish. He looked forward to the annual pilgrimage to St. Anne de Beaupre, Quebec with his loving wife (Ma’kit) Margaret Marie Paul and other elders from his community. A highly respected traditional leader, Melvin was a member of the Sante Mawiomi, Mi’kmaq Grand Council for many years. He sang in not only the Church Choir, but at Karaokes everywhere.
He was at his happiest when he was surrounded by the kindness and laughter of his family, extended family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the numerous friends he had in his life journey. He especially enjoyed setting up camp at the annual St. Anne’s Mission in Potlotek every year. He always had a great smile and laughter with everybody he knew and met. His stories and tales of his life memories will surely be missed. He instilled a very strong work ethic in everything he did in life and was a drywaller by trade, a carpenter, and later a medical transportation carrier.
Melvin is survived by his sons, Danny, Clifford, Blair; and daughters, Darlene, Kimberley, and Laureen, all of Membertou. He is also survived by his sisters, Elizabeth LaPorte, Mary T. Paul and brother John H. Paul; numerous nephews and nieces, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He and mom helped raise several foster children, all of whom they loved equally as their own — they include Judy Ann Marshall, Nicholas Isaac, and Brian J. Johnson. Several other foster children received the benefit of their love as well and numerous god children.
He was predeceased by his loving wife of 48 years, the late Margaret Marie Paul, his parents, and sister Geraldine (John) Paul.
Visitation for Keptin Melvin Paul will take place Saturday, Nov. 22 at 3 p.m. for family members and at 6 p.m. for all at the family residence on 6 Micmac Crescent, Membertou. Funeral mass will be celebrated 10:30am Monday, Nov. 24 at the St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish (formerly St. Joseph’s Church) 40 Cabot St., Sydney. Rev. Bill Burke officiating. Interment in Membertou Memorial Gardens.
Online condolences may be made by visiting www.twcurry.com.