I met Paul when he was in Asia on a trip with Laurie. The nicest and kindest gentleman that is out there. It was great to get to know Paul while on the trip. My condolences to Laurie and all of the family.

AJ Easton

On behalf of Bow Valley College, we were deeply saddened to hear of Paul's passing. He has always been a champion of our learners and work, both personally and professionally.

Paul's contribution to our community in Calgary and beyond has been tremendous, particularly his work in connecting people so that they could work together for the greater good. We have felt this impact and have been beneficiaries of these partnerships that have had wonderful impact on our learners and Bow Valley College community.

I will remember Paul's smile and generous spirit which we have all benefited from - his kindness and compassion will always be felt around us.

Our condolences to the Polson family during this time. Wishing you strength and peace during this time.

Tasneem Rahim, Bow Valley College

I am so very saddened to hear of Paul's passing. I only knew him for a few years but what a wonderful, genuine, and caring man and human being. I very much appreciated his wise words and delightful conversations. I will truly miss him. I wish his family all the very best - he will be so missed.

Penny Werthner

Faculty of Kinesiology

University of Calgary

I had the great pleasure of working with Paul in many capacities, including nearly a decade of collaboration on the Bow Valley College projects. Paul is one of a few who transformed the culture of the construction industry, and I count myself as one of the many whom, as said in his beautiful obituary, Paul had a "profound impact" on. I confess to on occasion quoting a Paul-ism without attribution - "Let's make the project the enemy". Such a simple but important principle that I now think of almost daily in my work as an architect. To Paul, life was just way too short to succumb to the conflict that too often arises from the stresses, varied perspectives and interests of the parties involved in a major construction project. Paul was always the calming (and smiling) presence in the room that reminded us that our common purpose was a completed project that was a success from all perspectives, and damn if his vast positive energy, enthusiasm, calmness and optimism didn't make it so. I will miss him for that, for his huge support for me during a period of career transition, for memorable experiences on the golf course and around a dining table (saganaki at a hole-in-the-wall in TO stands out), and many other small but important things that he gave to us all. My deepest condolences to the Polson family for your loss.

Laurie and family,

Sincere condolences to all of you as you grieve Paul's passing. It is a great loss for your family, friends and the community as Paul seemed to make an impact on people wherever he went. Lovely obituary and hopefully the celebration of Paul's life gave you some comfort.

I enjoyed having the opportunity to travel with Paul and you on the golf trips to Australia and Thailand...many good times on and off the golf course! I have shared a few photos of these special moments. Paul was genuine and often found humour along the way. He will be missed! May the memories help to ease your pain.

Sending hugs your way.

Deb Phillips

Dear Polson family - beautiful obituary for an amazing man. He sure packed a lot of life into his too-short time.

I have a clear memory of him at a wine group night at our old place in Cedarbrae, looking exactly like he does in his picture here. A random memory with little surrounding detail, but I can see him sitting there smiling.

With all my love and prayers,

Thera Ehn nee Body

Laurie, we were saddened to hear of Paul's passing. Our sincerest condolences to you & your family.

We identify strongly with the personal way Paul forged business relationships, many over & after an enjoyable round of golf, & he was always there with a memento for his clients. We remember him fondly every time we put on one of his company's golf shirts.

It was a pleasure to work with him & spend time with you both. He will be greatly missed.

Lynn & John Rust

Paul was an amazing man who i learned a lot from and I counted fortunate to have as a friend! My thoughts and prayers go out to the family....Paul will be missed!

Dear Laurie and Family

Our condolences on the passing of Paul.

We remember him as a genuinely nice person who we knew mainly through golf at Country Hills.

Our paths crossed many years ago when Paul was a student at William Aberhart High School.

We also had the pleasure of Paul serving us at the Calgary Stampede Board of Directors dinner.

He will be missed by many.

Thelma and Harvey Wilkinson

As a young student in Architecture, i remember vividly having Paul talk with us at the University of Calgary. His message was one of unbounded excitement and wonder at the possibilities of the profession. As I transitioned into the my internship, and Paul transitioned into the world of construction, I felt the same enthusiasm and optimism in the community. As I transitioned to a more senior role in my career we would cross paths more and more, and I new everything was going to be just fine. I would see the very same gleam in his eye, and he would simply smile and wink. I realized long ago that Paul carried his grace , his brilliance, and his smile everywhere; and we were all better for it. He was never defined by his chosen professions, he transformed them. Once of the most incredible people I have ever had the pleasure of calling my mentor and friend.

You will be dearly missed Paul

Kind Regards

John Souleles - Principal DIALOG

Sincere condolences to Paul`s family on their loss. Paul was the inspiring architect who designed the Science Wing at Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School, a beautiful addition that opened in 1996. Paul was an outstanding professional whose ideas and attention to detail were impressive. His positive spirit throughout design and construction reached everyone involved in the process. He will be remembered for his qualities and for the fine building that has enhanced teaching and learning.

Peter Ditchburn

Laurie and family;

Our deepest sympathies. I have such great memories working with Paul on the Stampede Board. I guess it really wasn't work, it was fun. He was a great person and truly understood what it meant to give back to the community. He will be missed.

Bob and Jackie Taylor

My condolences to all of Paul's family and friends on this very sad and tragic news.

Paul was a great person and a Calgary community leader. I was fortunate to work with Paul of some great projects - his energy and positive outlook was amazing!

This is a big loss to our City and he will be missed.

Best Regards

Dean Slater

Laurie and family,

Paul was special on so many levels. When you spoke to Paul, he listened. Seems so simple, but alway made you feel as if that moment was all that mattered to him. I hope that anyone who met him truly understands the extraordinary person he was for the community, the city and the province. He was always giving ... and now I give my heartfelt condolences to all that knew him. He made the world a better place and will be missed.

Patrick Miksa

So sorry to hear of Paul's passing. He was so well known, I recall going for lunch with Paul to discuss some business. We sat down and someone waved from a far table and came over for a chat. As they moved back another person walking by our table recognized Paul and stopped to chat. This went on through our whole lunch. We did finish our discussion when we arrived back at the office. He will be missed.

I got to know Paul a bit through the Calgary Stampede. Very sorry to hear of his passing. He will be greatly missed.

Dear Laurie and family,

Rainer and I were shocked to hear this news and now cherish the get together at Anne-Marie’s before Christmas. We have known Paul since Jordan and Tamara carpooled to hockey together. As others have mentioned, he always had a smile and never took life too seriously. Laurie our hearts just ache for you and the boys. Sending you hugs...love, Marlene and Rainer Augsten

Laurie and family,

Our condolences with respect to Paul's passing. We feel very fortunate to have been friends of Paul. Paul was a wonderful, gentle man and a role model for all of us with respect to how he led his life. He made a significant positive contribution to the communities in which we live, whether that be Calgary, Alberta or Canada. We are all better people for having known Paul.

We very much enjoyed our times with you and Paul, Laurie - golfing, wine tasting, travelling, attending Stampede events, etc. We have an especially fond memory of an early morning walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge with you and Paul - one of our most memorable travel experiences ever. I can still remember much of my conversation with Paul that morning.

Laurie and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dawn and Glenn Wickerson

Dear Laurie and Family

It was with shock I read of Paul's passing today. My deepest condolences on the loss of a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. I had the pleasure of working with Paul for many years on the Bow Valley College expansion and always enjoyed seeing him at events over the years. A true gentleman and always a smile and words of wisdom. He made his mark but has left far too soon. May you all be comforted with wonderful memories you made together.

Poulson Family - Paul was truly an exceptional human being! You felt the warmth and depth of his kindness and compassion as soon as you had the pleasure of meeting him which I was fortunate to have had through my Stampede Committee. My deepest condolences to all of you.

Laurie & family

Thoughts and prayers are with you.

Paul was a true gentlemen .

Always a joy to spend time with .

Linda & Renny Rantucci

Dear Laurie and family

Our heartfelt condolences. The few times we met Paul we always felt his joyous positive nature. We are thinking of you and may his memories bring you strength.

Fondly. Janis and Brian Kowall

Dear Laurie & family,

I had the pleasure of working with Paul at the Calgary Stampede over the last five years. It was a gift to know him - such a brilliant, kind and gentle man. I will always remember him fondly.

Wendy Olson

Dear Laurie, Tyler, Graham, Jordan and Family

I feel very privileged to have known Paul and to have sat at the Calgary Stampede board room table with him.

The best conversations took place after the meeting when we gathered informally and he critiqued the wine to be served. We knew that whatever 'red' he chose, was the one to ask for.

He was engaged in advancing the organization's Master Plan and provided valuable professional insights and expertise

on park development. He loved the rodeo, chuck wagons, his fellow volunteers and the 'community spirit' activities.

Paul's legacy is one to be proud of - his family, iconic buildings across Canada, his contributions to community, and the gift of his time, care and support to many. He had an exceptional ability to build relationships - clients became friends.

He 'walked the talk' on western values - honesty, trustworthiness, and he excelled at hospitality! Everything I know about red wine I learned from him. Thank you, Paul.

When I look upwards and see a wonderful cloud formation, I will know it is the awesome work of our 'architect in the sky'.

Sincerely.

Kate Thrasher

To the Polson Family. My prayers go out to you. I had the privilege to work with Paul in Toronto. A truly remarkable personality, a true friend and colleague. He will be greatly missed by so many.

A great loss.

Regards,

Robert Rostecki

Laurie, Tyler, Graham, Jordan, and Families,

I have had the great pleasure of working with Paul among other Polson family members over the last 17 years with Stuart Olson. I will never forget the time we were working on a job at the Zoo. It was a tough job and we were working long hours and most weekends. Paul, being the type of person he was, took time out of his very busy schedule to visit the site and do a walk around to see how the project was going. It was just the two of us and at the end of the tour Paul thanked me, shook my hand, and told me to thank my wife for lending me to Stuart Olson for the last month. He also told me to make sure I took my family for a nice dinner on him. This meant a lot to me and my family and I think it speaks volumes about the type of person and leader Paul was. He was the type of leader that people would follow anywhere. I know I would. I will personally miss Paul as a mentor, leader, and most importantly as a friend. He will be missed but not forgotten and on behalf of the Scheck family our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to you at this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Mike, Melissa, Brooklyn, & Gracie Scheck

Dear Laurie and Family,

In dealing with Paul over the last 17 years in business, I can say that I have never met a nicer man that was well rooted and focused on family and results. We always think we take so many pictures but I just looked through the archives of our annual golf trip to attach a photo of the event with Paul in it and couldn't find one. The laughs and memories will live on.

Conal and Cathy Hancherow

TDI

Dear Laurie and Family,

Bob and I so enjoyed spending time with you and Paul at Calgary Stampede events and serving with Paul on the Stampede Board. Thanks for sharing him with us. I had hoped we'd have many future celebrations together in his newest role as Honorary Life Director. Our heartfelt condolences to you, your family and grandkids as you grieve Paul's passing and celebrate his life. We will miss him - and especially his warmth, dry wit and calm presence. Hugs to you all.

Dear Laurie and family,

Theresa and I offer you our thoughts and prayers at the passing of Paul.

He was a gentle and caring man. I joined Stuart Olson shortly after Paul, in all that time I think the strongest words he ever used were, “We can do better, we are better than this”. He was always encouraging and supportive.

I recall a conversation concerning an industry colleague who died at work. The discussion was around co-workers and the immediate family. Paul knew I was taking the situation to heart and he said, “Don’t worry Neil, if something were to happen to you, I would be the one to talk to Theresa”.

Paul, you taught me a lot about relationships, work ethics and humility. You are being missed, you will not be forgotten.

Theresa and Neil Elford

Laurie, Tyler, Graham and Jordan,

Of all of the Polsons, we know Jordan the best. Everything we read about Paul rings true when we think of Jordan - the DNA is unbreakable, it would seem. Our Rosedale connections kept us aware of Paul’s fight and our hopes were strong for your family to experience a different outcome.

Words fail to properly convey our sadness for your loss of Paul. Unfair, untimely, unlucky, unfinished, unselfish. All are probably appropriate but individually, understate the ache in your heart. It’s just plain wrong.

Our thoughts are with you and your families.

Sandy Hodgson and Stephen, Daniel and Dave Reed

My deepest condolences to the Polson family and all of Paul's close friends and colleagues. I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with this great man, across almost 5 different provinces, during the 8 years I was at Stuart Olson. His uncanny ability to be everyone's friend, but yet a great mentor, boss and leader, Was always astonishing to me. How he could positively provide correction on items, yet instilling confidence and positively in you to be a greater person. Back in the late 2000's I remember the younger generation of EIT's being weary of going out for lunch with Paul. Because the 45 minute lunch would turn into a 2 hour unexpected marketing adventure. You may only be at the restaurant for 45 minutes. But the walk there and back you would run into a handful of random people, that he would chat with for about 5 to 10 minutes. By the time you got back to the office. Paul would have planted the seeds for multiple potential projects for Stuart Olson, that would most likely come to fruition in the next year. Thank you Mr. Polson, you will be missed immensely.

When I think of Paul, I think of a smile, his genuine manner and passion he exuded in every aspect of presence. His eyes absolutely shone on so many different topics of discussion but none more that when talking about family and friends. His passion for work came through all the time and I'm reminded every time of "if you truly love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life". Paul exemplified this. There will be many stories and fond memories which will be shared for a long time.

Won’t ever forget Paul’s amazing generosity, his energetic personality, or his great sense of humour. Paul always made me feel so welcome in the Polson home; every interaction I had with him made it obvious that he genuinely cared about others and what was going on in their lives. You’ll be missed Paul; some of my fondest memories include going to Mexico with you, watching the ponies at Stampede up close, or taking advantage of the hot tub with Graham (we may have snuck in once or twice but we knew you’d be cool with it). This is jjust to name a few of many. These particular moments, of course, were all due to your generosity! I’m glad to have had the privilege to know you and share some really great moments together. To the Polson’s; my deepest condolences, you’re in my thoughts. All the best.

Clayton, Allysa, & Oaklan

To say Paul was someone special would be an understatement. He is undoubtedly an immense loss for his family but the wider community will feel his absence for some time. I worked with Paul at Stuart Olson and his genuine and warm personality, quick wit and enthusiastic approach to just about everything (whether that was a proposal or a lunch meeting) is something I will always remember. He was truly someone so special who made an impact on anyone lucky enough to know him.

Paul hired me when he had his own practice, and was a wonderful influence as I developed in the field of Architecture. I have many fond memories and lessons learned from him which I still employ today. I missed having lunch with Paul a couple months ago and never got to express my appreciation. My sincerest condolences to the Polson family.

We especially cherish the memories of our recent adventures with Paul in Singapore. He was a successful and worldly man, who never lost sight of the value of his fellow human beings. Paul’s observant eye and sense of humour was appreciated by all. He will be missed.

Hugs to Laurie and Family,

Norm and Barb Sigalet

My deepest sympathies on your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

An amazing man and for most of my time at Stuart Olson, my neighbor - always kind, always willing to check in, always willing to talk and always quick to call you his friend... you will be and already are missed, thanks for your positive and enduring impact on my life Paul. My condolences to the entire Polson family

Paul was a wonderful guy. First met him through the Calgary Chamber of Commerce and then the pleasure of working with him for a time at Stuart Olson. He’ll surely be missed.

Paul was a great friend and colleague to us all. We will miss him dearly.

Doug and Jo-Anne Harrison

Paul hired me at Stuart Olson in December 2015. I remember the day I interviewed with him vividly. He had such a calm and charismatic demeanor, and I instantly knew I wanted to work for him. In my time working with Paul, I saw how knowledgeable he was, how well respected he was, and how many people loved him. He was the ultimate people-person and connector. He was not very tech savvy... and he openly admitted it with a laugh. He was great with a marker and white board, but would sheepishly avoid ever having to use a spreadsheet if he could help it. I will miss seeing his friendly face around town, and I'm sending hugs and much sympathy to his loved ones and the Stuart Olson family.

My sincere and deepest sympathy to Laurie and Family.

I, along with so many others, had the chance to work with Paul - he is one of the most extraordinary individuals I ever had the pleasure to meet. This is a tremendous loss not only to his family, but the community.

Dear Laurie,

I was saddened by the news of Pauls' passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Prayers and fond memories are what we have to remember our loved ones.

I remember Paul being a gracious host when you held a Lab. party at your 2 story home in Rosedale those many years ago.

What lovely tribute you have written for Paul. An amazing husband, father and Papa. Such a legacy.

No one can really prepare you for a loss, it comes like the wind.

Even though Paul has left this earth he will always be alive in your hearts.

May the love of God give you the comfort and peace that you seek and may the soul of Paul Rest In Peace.

Brenda

Words come hard. A very good man – kind, funny, composed, and caring.

When we worked together, we spoke daily, usually unloading our problems on each other. That’s where the laughs started again…I’ll always appreciate that.

He loved being deeply involved in the Stampede and he would beam when discussing it.

But most of all, he was very proud of his family. If you spent any time with him at all, you would soon learn that.

Paul was a great friend. I will miss him.

Take care of each other Laurie, Tyler, Graham, Jordan and families.

I met Paul through the Theatre. It was evident form the outset that Paul was guided by an inner strength and the quiet of unshakable vision. I had the fortune to benefit from Paul's words of guidance even in his last weeks. The Theatre has lost a great friend and I a powerful mentor. Rest in peace Paul. We shall miss you.

Susanne and I would like to offer condolences to the Polson family.  

I have been very fortunate to have been able to call Paul a business partner, a mentor, and most importantly a friend. Paul gave me the courage to do and strive for more.  Early in my career, Paul was instrumental in helping me align my ambitions and dreams with my aspiration to be a good father, husband, and employee.  While I was at Calgary Municipal Land Corporation in the early day's Paul encouraged me to demand more out of our projects.  He advocated for the delivery of projects that were designed well and brought in on budget. As my career progressed a regular check-in with Paul became the norm.  These check-ins kept me grounded and focused on the right things.   

Susanne and I were so fortunate to get to spend time with Paul

and Laurie.  Both of us value the friendship that developed    We

send Laurie and the boys all of our love and support. 

In saying good by I know that the world is better in having known Paul.   He has supported me to be a better husband, father, and man.    Many people love you dearly Paul, we are so grateful for the many gifts you shared.   

Susanne and Mike Brown 

Dear Laurie, and family.

I can hardly imagine enduring the loss of a husband, father, brother in law. Paul was all these things and so much more. He always had a ready smile and a warm comment for all those he knew. I have always admired the way Paul lived his life, full of family and friends it seemed as if you were both so involved in so many things that are most important in life. I know you are all a very tight family and I'm so glad for that.

Adam and are thinking of you all, our deepest sympathies.

Hayley and Adam.

Laurie and family, our heartfelt sympathy to you and the family, Paul will be missed by all of us.

Dear Laurie and family,

Jana and I were greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Paul.

He was always a bright spot on the Calgary Stampede Board and could always be relied upon for his thoughtful insights about all things business or cowboy. His smiling face will be missed.

Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this incredibly difficult time.

Mike O'Connor and Jana Kristin

Laurie + Family: Carol and I have you in our thoughts as we quietly grieve his passing.

I personally owe Paul a debt of gratitude for his mentorship while I progressed from an employee to associate to partner at Laird Polson Architects during the '90's. Paul's guidance provided me with three notable traits that have sustained me over the subsequent years of practice: firstly, the love of golf; secondly, the knowledge that forming strong personal and professional bonds with clients was core to success in architectural practice; and thirdly, developing expertise and relationships in the fields of healthcare and education.

He, and his infectious smile, will be missed.

Tom Tittemore

Architect (Life Member)

To Laurie and the entire Polson family,

I have known Paul for approximately 15 years through my work with the Stampede as it's auditor and now as a newly appointed board member. Paul always took the time to say "hello kiddo" and give me words of encouragement and praise. In fact, he left a wonderful voicemail for me upon my appointment just a few months ago, the words in which I treasure. Paul was one of the most amazing, sincere human beings I have ever met. When they say that every touch leaves a trace, I would say that Paul's reach was vast and deep. He will be lovingly remembered forever by all.

Wishing you peace and comfort as you remember this extraordinary man!

Tracey Zehl

Dear Laurie and family,

My deepest condolences to you in the loss of Paul. Paul was the epitome of a gentleman cowboy; respectful, kind, quick to share expertise and thoughtful in all encounters. It was my honour to serve with him on the Calgary Stampede Board of Directors.

Wishing you love and strength in your memories of a great man.

Take care,

Teri McKinnon

I have known Paul for over twenty years in a number of different capacities. He was a larger than life figure in Calgary architecture and an early advocate for broadening the realm of how we might practice. I very much respect how we 'walked the talk' in his own career. Paul was an advocate for our School and a mentor to our students. He was never too busy for a thoughtful word, a sparkling smile, and a funny quip. Paul will be missed.

John Brown

Dean

School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape

University of Calgary

Our sincerest condolences to the family for their loss.

I knew Paul for about 20+ years. Words to describe Paul do not come easy. He was so many things to so many people. He was the consummate gentleman and always very professional. His philosophy was do right by everyone and they'll do right by you. Whenever we traveled there was always somebody he knew and had to say hi to. And he never forgot a name (Amazing!!!). His giving back to community was exhausting to watch. He was very supportive of people that he worked with and let them know of that support. He was a devoted family man and considered everyone he worked with to be part of his extended family. We feel honoured to have know such an outstanding individual and will miss him dearly.

As a number of persons have said to us over the past few days:

He was one of the good guys.

Karen and Bill Christensen

Dear Laurie and family,

Thank you for sharing Paul with us at the Stampede, our RC team and for me personally, his guidance on the Board was immeasurable. He was a gem of person -- a true gentlemen and he will be missed, no doubt. Paul's long-lasting impact on our community is his legacy. My sincere condolences.

Elizabeth Burke-Gaffney

My deepest and sincere sympathies to Laurie and Jordan and the whole Polson family. Paul was such a major figure in my life since arriving in Calgary in 2014. He exemplified the spirit of Calgary with his energy, passion for life, his spirit of giving and his kind, open heart. He would tease me without mercy and when he did, the mischievous twinkle in his eyes meant you just had to laugh and give him credit for his brilliant wit. I will miss this most (and the sneaky glass of wine we would share now and then). I was blessed to know him.

In Business you meet many types of people, Paul was the best kind, smart, nice, polite, pushed hard for good results. He was just the type of person you could trust, enjoy the humor and depend on. What a great guy.

I was very saddened to hear of Paul’s passing. I had not seen him in a few months and the last time we met I introduced him to a new client and enjoyed some Thai food for lunch following the meeting. He was keen to continue his travels despite his illness and was looking forward to some further adventures with his wife and family. My deepest sympathies to his wife and family at this sad time.

I was saddened to hear about Paul’s passing last Friday. We have been friends since we first met at architecture school at the University of Manitoba in 1974. We went on to sit together on the Council of the Alberta Association of Architects in the mid 80’s and then to be part of the group of guys who created Stantec Architecture. One of my favourite times with Paul was when our 2 families spent a vacation in Disney World in Florida after a business conference. When ever I would see him in the decades after that he always reminded me that his son Jordan was still looking for revenge on me for dumping that cooler of ice water on him when he was 6 years old. The last time I saw Paul was 2 years ago over smoked meat sandwiches at Gruman’s Deli in Calgary. Like every time when we got together our conversation was a little bit about work, but mostly about our families. He was always updating me on the latest golf junket that Laurie and him had been on and what his sons were up to; who was working where, who was dating whom, and who got married and of course his grandkids. Paul lived life with passion and honesty. He was a “mensch”. He loved his community, he loved his friends, his golf, his travels, being that entrepreneur and “schmoozer” extraordinaire; but most of all he loved his wife and sons. He will be sadly missed, he touched so many lives. I’m glad he was a friend and made mine so much better by being part of it. Hugs to Laurie and The Boys.

Over the 20 plus years that I knew and worked with Paul, I was always learning from him - to do your utmost to make people feel good about themselves, to be patient, the importance of ‘high touch’, a term Paul phrased, to be considerate, to listen, and no matter what, to be kind.

Paul always had such wonderful ideas, they were inspirational and clever, and quite often came from the heart. It was clear to me that he not only loved his work but he also loved people with a passion. It truly was a joy to work with Paul.

My family and I have spent time socially with Paul and his family over the years, with plenty of smiles and laughter. We all feel very blessed to have known such a beautiful human being.

Tressa Eidsness