September 23, 1933 - April 20, 2024
In loving memory ~
Paul was born in Finland on Sept. 23, 1933 and died peacefully with family at his side at Trillium Hospice in Parksville April 20, 2024. Our hearts are broken as we bid a sad farewell to a kind, generous man who had such a profound impact in the lives of so many people and a genuine concern for others.
His early years during wartime, were difficult, but he took a giant step and immigrated to Canada, leaving behind his family. With hard work and determination he advanced to management with the Hudson's Bay Company, and ended his working career with the Provincial Government in the Ministry of Consumer Affairs as a Registrar.
He was a caring, thoughtful, intelligent person with an inquiring mind, who had the ability to strike up a friendly conversation with perfect strangers. His wife Pat accompanied him as they visited 5 continents, and over 40 countries, quite often off the beaten trails. They spent many winters in Bucerias, Mexico, and frequently visited family in Finland, Sweden and U.S.A.
He enjoyed participating in sports, and following sports on TV, especially hockey and track and field. Everything stopped when the Olympics were scheduled. His garden was a showpiece with dahlias and flower boxes full of geraniums. Large quantities of tomatoes and vegetables were grown to be shared with friends.
He loved music in all forms, but his favourite was a New Orleans type of jazz. He loved dogs and cats, fishing in the ocean, spending time in his RV, entertaining, good food, and the occasional glass of red wine with family and friends.
Sadly his beloved daughter Carol Bajkov predeceased Paul last year. Mourning his passing are his wife of 53 years Pat, son John, son-in-law Phil Bajkov grandchildren Matt/Lisa Bajkov, Lara/Kevin Pederson, and four beautiful great-grandchildren Claire, Mason, Parker, and Jaden. Brother Kaj in Finland and many nieces, nephews and cousins in Finland and Sweden, and his Korpi cousins in the U.S. Not to be forgotten are his loyal and devoted friends. He was deeply loved, and felt blessed to have such a large number of caring family and friends.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Hospice at Trillium Parksville who took such amazing care of Paul and family.
A huge thank you to all the nurses and volunteers in Nanaimo, Parksville, and our VIHA team. A special thank you to Dr. Beck, Dr. Hunter and nurses Colleen, Crystal, Carolyn and Will.
