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PAUL EDWARD BUTEUX
Born: Apr 25, 1939
Date of Passing: Mar 10, 2012
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryPAUL EDWARD BUTEUX Paul Edward Buteux passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, March 10, 2012. He is survived by his wife Iona, stepson Julian, daughter-in-law Julie, granddaughter Charlotte, Jeff, and his trusted friend Cassie. He is predeceased by his father Edward William and mother Phyllis Eileen. Paul was born on April 25, 1939 in Walthamstow East, Essex (north London). A lifelong Spurs fan, he attended the London School of Economics, where he received his Doctorate of Philosophy in International Relations. In 1963, he took up a position in the Department of Political Studies at the University of Manitoba, from which he retired as a Full Professor on December 31, 2008. Paul had a distinguished academic career. He was Canada's leading scholar on nuclear weapons and nuclear deterrence and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). His books on the Politics of Nuclear Consultation in NATO, and Theatre Nuclear Force Modernization in NATO remain the pre-eminent texts on the subject in academic and policy circles. In addition, Paul contributed chapters in numerous edited volumes, and published many articles in the leading journals on a wide range of international relations and Canadian defence policy issues. Reflecting his commitment to academic excellence, education, and a learned public debate on defence and security issues, in 1986 Paul created the Research Programme in Strategic Studies with a grant from the Department of National Defence's Military and Strategic Studies Programme. His work was recognized by the University in 1992 with the establishment of the Centre for Defence and Security Studies, in which he served as Director until 2006. Through his efforts and initiative, the Programme and the Centre established the University as a leading voice on international, strategic and Canadian defence issues. For Paul, the centerpiece of his academic career was students. He always had time to speak with students and provide advice for their academic studies, as well as their careers, even years after the students had left the university. Thanks to his commitment, many of his students have gone on to successful careers in academia, the private sector and government. He was especially proud of the number of his students who have gone on to successful careers in National Defence. As part of this commitment, in 1985, Paul created the Annual Political Studies Graduate Student Conference on International Relations: the longest standing student conference of its kind in Canada, now in its 29th year. His purpose was to provide valuable experience to students in organizing an international conference, and exposing them to the leading national and international scholars and policy-makers. Believing that education did not stop at the door of the university, Paul hosted the conference-ending social gathering at his home to enable students to engage directly with all the participants. Over the years, hundreds of volunteer students benefited immensely from their experience, thanks to Paul's dedication and hospitality. Paul was one of the original members of University College, and a dedicated member of the Senior Common Room. He always believed that scholarship was more than just an obsession for one's narrow area of specialization. For Paul, the Senior Common Room provided the opportunity to exchange views and debate issues amongst scholars from all disciplines. He also always took the effort to invite students into the Common Room to expose them to the proper academic life. Paul, in the last number of years, developed a passion for horse racing, and upon his retirement, dedicated himself to this passion. He was the co-owner of numerous race horses, and a regular at Assiniboia Downs. In his last years, he greatly enjoyed the opportunity to attend the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness. Paul will be greatly missed by his family, university colleagues, former students, and friends at Assiniboia Downs. To honour Paul, a reception will be held in the Senior Common Room, University College, on Friday, March 16 between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Paul Buteux Graduate Student Conference and Research Fund, University of Manitoba. The Fund, established within the Centre for Defence and Security Studies, will provide graduate students with the opportunity to attend conferences or support research in areas directly related to Paul's work.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 14, 2012
Condolences & Memories (14 entries)
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GREAT PROFESSOR - Posted by: JIM HENRY (STUDENT) on: May 02, 2016
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Let me add my word of sympathy regarding Paul's death. I taught him when he was an undergraduate - a lively and clever one - and much later was delighted to renew our acquaintance at one of his Graduate Conferences. When, recently, I was throwing out a lot of old paperwork I came across some material relating to him, and thought I would mention it - only to discover that he was no longer with us. My memory of him, though, remains very much alive. - Posted by: Alan James (Teacher) on: Jul 23, 2014
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This is a very late tribute, as it is almost two years since Paul passed away. We were both members of that diverse group of academics that populated the academic wing of University College at the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada. Paul and I were diametrically opposed in almost any area of our shared expertise in the social sciences. But never did a nasty word cross his lips when we discussed the state of the world. I still miss him and will always do so. Am still arranging to pass his University College office when visiting the College's Senior Common Room. - Posted by: Jesse Vorst (colleague and fellow member of University College) on: Jan 19, 2014
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I am indeed sorry to only learn of the death of Professor Paul Buteux when I googled his name today. I studied under Professor Buteux when I was a graduate student at the University of Manitoba. As a foreign student from Saint Lucia it took me a while to understand his lectures because of his accent but I caught on quickly. Professor Buteux was always available and willing to assist and he was a great help to me. While stationed at the High Commission for Eastern Caribbean in London England, I got a surprise visit from Professor Buteux and we spent a wonderful half day at lunch just chatting about politics. May I take this opportunity to extend my deepest sympathy to his family and friends. - Posted by: Joe Allain (Professor Paul Buteau taught Strategic Studies and Economic Relations When I did my post graduate d) on: Jan 08, 2013
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I'll miss you my friend R.I.P. and you will always be remembered. - Posted by: jeff (dad) on: Jul 24, 2012
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We were friends by encountering each other on walks to the Forest with his dogs(s) and later just Cassie, and me with my dog Sweetie. We spoke of his Kentucky Derby trip, his horses, and health issues (my friend's cancer bout), and unfortunately, then his own - the first part, then the wait, and the progression of the disease. I worried during the winter that things weren't getting better - but, I still remember the lovely picture of him taken in the fall, walking Cassie, that the Free Press published. I miss our visits. - Posted by: Diane Lee (Forest friend) on: Mar 28, 2012
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Dearest Iona and family, I was deeply saddened to hear of Paul's passing. Although our time together was short, I was struck by his kindness,gentleness and thoughtfulness. With all of his health concerns, he found the time and energy to take me with my 5 grandchildren to see the race horses, have lunch and a tour of the stables. We were all impressed and I was very grateful knowing that could not have been easy for him. He was a special soul and will be deeply missed. - Posted by: Carol DeLuca (Friend) on: Mar 20, 2012
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It was always a joy to run into Paul and Cassie. I didn't know anything about his academic career until I read the obituary; just that he, like me, loved his dog and the Forest. My deepest condolences, Ruth and Sam-the-puppy - Posted by: Ruth Hodder (Fellow walker at Assiniboine Forest) on: Mar 18, 2012
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To Iona and the family, our heartfelt condelences and deepest sympathies. For me, over the past 30 years or so, Paul was first and foremost my professor. Over the years, he became a mentor and major influence. But, he was also a friend and a family member. We will always cherish the visits that he and you paid to my parents' place. I will always cherish his wise counsel during the ebbs and flows of my life. He made a difference. He will always be missed. In saddness, The Sharmas Anupam and Timmy and, Rahul and Rohan B.K. Sharma and Pushpa Sharma (Parents) - Posted by: Anupam Sharma (Student & Friend) on: Mar 17, 2012
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Dr Buteux was one of the most distinguished academics who ever graced the University of Manitoba campus. He leaves behind a great legacy of talented students, and insightful scholarship. May he rest in peace! - Posted by: Lasha Tchantouridze (Colleague) on: Mar 16, 2012
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Paul Buteax had an undeniable impact on the lives, outlook and ultimate career path of so many of his students, including myself. He will be missed. - Posted by: Kendal Hembroff (BA Honours Political Studies 1998) (Former student) on: Mar 16, 2012
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I was the last graduate student Prof. Buteux advised before retirement and the breadth of his knowledge never ceased to amaze me. I enjoyed our discussions and am grateful for his contributions and guidance. My condolences to his family and colleagues. - Posted by: Alana Vannahme (Graduate Student MA) on: Mar 16, 2012
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Iona and family, My deepest sympathy in this time of loss and sadness. May the memories you cherish bring you comfort to carry you through the days ahead. Sincerely, Doreen Mihalus - Posted by: Doreen Mihalus () on: Mar 14, 2012
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I will always remember Professor Buteux's insight and quick wit, which had a way of putting students at ease when they were under pressure. His parties were indeed legendary, and made a difference for those who were fortunate enough to attend the Centre by making it truly more than just a place to get a grad degree. True and lasting friendships were forged during these years, which in my view is a nice legacy to have - beyond the professional attestations. Condolences to all who knew him. - Posted by: Martin Simard (Graduate Student MA 1998) on: Mar 14, 2012