HARRY PAULS

Condolences & Memories (54 entries)

• Just searching Harry Paul’s and did not know he passed away in 2015. He was the best teacher I ever had, A great guy with a good sense of humour. I still talk about him. On our last day of school he said to me, I don’t know what I’m gonna do for laughs next year Hobson. I’ve never forgot that. He told me I could be anything I wanted. He was just the best. A man who should have lived forever I’ll never forget him. - Posted by: Bill Hobson (Student) on: Dec 03, 2023

• Today I listened to my granddaughter win a poetry slam on youtube. It invoked a random memory about Harry which led me to this site. Harry was practical. The academic virtues bestowed on literary works often don't fly on every day planet earth. One discussion we had regarding the Salem witch trials underscored practical solutions the accused would could have invoked to sustain their lives. You live on Harry. You taught how to think and not what to think. A lesson lost on most teachers and universities today. Thanks. - Posted by: Bob Milner (Student SJCI) on: Nov 12, 2021

• The amazing thing about Harry was that he got you involved in your curiosity by simply (sometimes with that Mennonite charm - sometimes with the archness of intellectual princes) showing you something you didn't know about what you thought you already knew. ~like Shakespeare. This made conversation with him a pedantic whirlwind where the simple and complex would converge like heat lines on the prairie - and instruction from him like that familiar prairie skyline with a tornado steadily moving through changing the landscape, forever. And it wasn't because he was ego involved with his intellect (beyond self-competition) - he was just plain curious about everything - so willing to entice you to teach him with anything he knew. (Hi Cameron - we met at the Blues Note - and from that I know this sometimes drove you crazy for more time with him) The biggest lessons were what he did NOT teach. I was in his 1st classroom of International Baccalaureate students (the eclectic 1st wave where the field was open - 80 students meeting their equals and better for the 1st time) and his reply to our argument for the future - no Biology classes in the curriculum (but double English) - was "Doctors?! ~is that All you want to become?!" To a group of feisty 15 year old geniuses moving 2-4 times as fast as our instructors that was a question that challenged us beyond what we knew, to show us what was possible beyond what he knew. Exactly appropriate - for Socrates or Aristotle, maybe Galileo - but he gifted us with that presence in some little place on the prairie - Winnipeg. You are very much alive in our hearts and minds Harry *: ) - Posted by: Ross Turchyn (student) on: Jun 25, 2016

• Mr. Pauls was a fantastic teacher, my favourite. He was passionate, and asked of his students the same deep engagement. I got so much out of his classes and appreciated his realness, sense of play, and strong encouragement. I have especially fond memories of he and Mr. Gordan directing The Crucible rehearsals (there were many, and they were fun!). My sincere condolences to his family. - Posted by: Nicki Brown (student, Silver Heights IB Class of 94) on: Jan 28, 2015

• Since learning of Mr. Pauls's death, I've been trying to understand what made him such a remarkable teacher. Intelligent, yes; insightful, without question--but also impatient with our indifference, unwilling to accept our mediocrity. He pushed us not just to think harder but to feel deeper. "Hamlet" became the vehicle in which he transported us into our own dark places. What comes back to me most vividly now is the Hopkins poem that he had the audacity to have us memorize in the fall of 1968: "Margaret, are you grieving/Over Goldengrove unleaving?/Leaves, like the things of man, you/With your fresh thoughts care for, can you?/Ah! as the heart grows older/It will come to such sights colder/By and by, nor spare a sigh/Though worlds of wanwood leafmeal lie;/And yet you will weep and know why./Now no matter, child, the name:/Sorrow's springs are the same./Nor mouth had, no nor mind, expressed/What héart héard of, ghóst guéssed:/It is the blight man was born for,/It is Margaret you mourn for." He couldn't tell us, but he knew. Thank you, Mr. Pauls. - Posted by: Isobel Waters (student ) on: Jan 18, 2015

• More than being a great teacher of English, Mr Pauls was a great teacher of philosophy: he challenged and encouraged us to look more deeply into what we had always taken for granted in our young lives – our inherited beliefs and concepts of “logic” – and guided us to deeper insights through language and literature. His questions allowed us to discover what was in the texts and in ourselves, to make our own interpretation. He dedicated himself not only to teaching but also to many additional school activities – in 1967, I remember especially his support as advisor to the SJCI yearbook team and as co-director (with Mr Riesen) of the school play “Arms and the Man”. How lucky we were to have had such a mentor – and, reading the obituary and the other tributes, I can see that Mr Pauls continued to play this role for countless students not only at SJCI over another three decades but also long beyond his retirement. His is a life to be celebrated. Ann Waters-Bayer (SJCI 1967), Goettingen, Germany - Posted by: Ann Waters-Bayer (Student (SJCI 1967)) on: Jan 16, 2015

• Did you ever have one of those teachers that brought to the classroom more than just "the lesson"... a teacher that could influence you for the remainder of your life? Harry Pauls was one of "those teachers". We managed to keep in touch over the years, share a few beers, and I was lucky enough to tell him that he was one of "those teachers" for me. His gruff good nature has always been a reminder to me of how powerful an influence we can be to younger people. While we joked that the only thing I remembered from grade 12 English was Dylan Thomas' "rage against the dying of the light...", I hope Harry knew that he taught me more. Rest in Peace Harry. "Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightning they Do not go gentle into that good night. Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night. Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light." - Posted by: Rick Gaunt (Student) on: Jan 12, 2015

• What a great loss - but also great is the legacy of this man, and the fond memories I have of Mr. Pauls - what a kind, and wonderful, wonderful man! My condolences and love to all of the family. - Posted by: Laura McAlpine (fellow church member/friend) on: Jan 11, 2015

• My relationship with Harry was multi-faceted, starting off in a professional capacity and morphing into an intimate and sharing relationship with both Harry and Betty. They represented the "salt of the earth" to me as demonstrated by how they dealt with the challenges presented to them over time. I will cherish all the memories of the many chats in my chair with Harry over the past decades. James and I will never forget our experience we had with the two of you in Mexico over sunset cocktails and dinner. Thank you Betty for allowing me to have a final cut and special visit with Harry in the hospital on December 21st. Our heart goes out to you Betty and your family over a great loss. - Posted by: Donald Pearen (Friend, Confidant, and Stylist) on: Jan 11, 2015

• Many of us will remember teachers who made learning fun and interesting. Mr. Pauls was one whom I remember well. I was in his English class in the late 60s at St. James Collegiate. His enthusiasm for the subject was infectious. He loved the language and he passed along that love to many of us. He was very knowledgeable, funny and occasionally a bit raunchy in his descriptions, particularly of Shakespeare, and his students ate it up. He was a wonderful member of that noble profession of teachers. He was a positive influence in the lives of so many students and I can think of no better legacy than that. My condolences to his wife Betty and his family. He was a good one! - Posted by: Doug Finkbeiner (former student at St. James Collegiate) on: Jan 11, 2015

• He was a wonderful teacher, and a caring man. I was blessed to sit in his English classes, and a better person for having known him. He loved his students, and he loved his profession. He taught with passion and purpose. I have thought of him him fondly over the years, and cannot attend a Shakespearen play or event without remembering him reading those words to us and showing his enjoyment of the text. Rest in peace, friend. The world is better for having had you in it. - Posted by: Joy Johnson Daly (Silver Heights IB program, class of '89) on: Jan 10, 2015

• Harry was a true patriarch in the traditional sense of family and community. To me he demonstrated the finest qualities of a father, a teacher, a man: accepting and embracing the challenges that comes with such responsibility, but always with humour, grace and a smile. His life and its impact will remain with the countless students and people he encountered on his journey. Our condolances. - Posted by: Kevin Palmer () on: Jan 10, 2015

• I had the privilege of spending grade eight in Mr. Pauls' class when he was a very young and fledgling teacher. In those days he taught the whole class, not just certain subjects and I, along with twenty-some other young people, had the benefit of his gift for teaching. That experience never left me and in the words of the song "you're simply the best". My condolences to the family. - Posted by: Marjorey Dwornick (Student) on: Jan 09, 2015

• Many fond memories of ‘Mr. Pauls’ at church, school, and at their family home during band-jams where Heather was our lead vocalist. This was a talent that ran in the family as he too had a moving and resonant voice. Although, it was not only a gift for singing but also made him a great orator. At a Christmas Concert at Silver Heights Mr. Pauls recited ‘T’was the Night Before Christmas’ as a part of a joint performance with the Concert Band. His rendition was enchanting. To me he was the star of the show and brilliantly set the mood for the Holiday Season that year… ‘And to all a good night’. - Posted by: J.O. (SCUC, Silver Heights) on: Jan 09, 2015

• Where does one begin? We were neighbours from the beginning. Next door we shared a driveway and my mom still lives there. Dickens Drive lost another great man. Harry made us spiced ham sandwiches and kraft dinner. His kraft dinner will still go down as the best kraft dinner I have ever tasted. Betty, Cam, Heather, my heart breaks for you. The loss will seem unbearable for some time but the memories of the wonderful man that you had as a father and a husband will never die. Rest in peace Harry and much love to your family in this horrible time. Maureen - Posted by: Maureen Devlin nee Willox (Neighbour) on: Jan 08, 2015

• Despite not having much of an appetite for poetry or Shakespeare, I thoroughly enjoyed English class with Mr. Pauls. His dry sense of humor appealed to me since I had become accustomed to the banter of my brother and his band mates, Heather and Mark. When I randomly ran into Mr. Pauls later in life, he always took a keen interest in what I was up to. Me: "I quit being a physio and studied philosophy instead...now I'm working in government, but I'm not really sure if it's for me." Mr. Pauls: "I don't understand what it is with you kids and why you're perpetually so unsatisfied, but good luck. I hope you figure things out soon." With his honesty came warmth and sincerity. He will be fondly remembered. My thoughts and well-wishes go out to the family. - Posted by: Sylvia Buchholz (Former student and friend of the Smiths) on: Jan 08, 2015

• I am sorry to hear of your loss. You will miss him dearly. Take care of each other at this difficult time. Sincere Condolences, Jane Hoag - Posted by: Jane Hoag () on: Jan 08, 2015

• So sad to hear of the passing of one of my favourite Silver Heights teachers, Mr Pauls!! Always entertaining and always keeping it real!! Great teacher!! Rest in peace. - Posted by: Cindy (Former Student (SHCI '83-'85)) on: Jan 08, 2015

• Mr. Pauls was my teacher in grade 8 in Altona. He was a teacher like we had never seen before, he asked questions and let us respond to what we thought of the subject. He seemed to "get" us pre-teen kids. He was always interested in what we were thinking and how that would apply to what we were studying. At the end of the year he saw that I was not doing well in my tests and was concerned that I might not get into grade 9....which I was desperate to do. He took me under his wing and guided me through the two subjects that eluded me .. math and science. I passed that year to grade nine with my friends. I was so grateful. He also loved poetry and I think we won an award at the speech arts festival. We practiced and practiced this poem .. and he kept on saying give it more life... say it like you mean it. I will never forget the poem and probably can recite it from heart still today. I will miss Mr. Pauls and never forget you. You were our pirate... Ho, for the Pirate Don Durk of Dowdee! He was as wicked as wicked could be, But oh, he was perfectly gorgeous to see! The Pirate Don Durk of Dowdee. His conscience, of course, was as black as a bat, But he had a floppety plume on his hat And when he went walking it jiggled - like that! The plume of the Pirate Dowdee. His coat it was handsome and cut with a slash, And often as ever he twirled his mustache Deep down in the ocean the mermaids went splash, Because of Don Durk of Dowdee. Moreover, Dowdee had a purple tattoo, And struck in his belt where he buckled it through Were a dagger, a dirk, and a squizzamaroo, For fierce was the Pirate Dowdee. So feaful he was he would shoot at a puff, And always at sea when the weather grew rough He drank from a bottle and wrote on his cuff, Did Pirate Don Durk of Dowdee. Oh, he had a cutlass that swung at his thigh And he had a parrot called Pepperkin Pye, And a zigzaggy scar at the end of his eye Had Pirate Don Durk of Dowdee. He kept in a cavern, this buccaneer bold, A curious chest that was covered with mould, And all of his pockets were jingly with gold! Oh jing! went the gold of Dowdee. His conscience, of course it was crook'd like a squash, But both of his boots made a slickery slosh, And he went throught the world with a wonderful swash, Did Pirate Don Durk of Dowdee. It's true he was wicked as wicked could be, His sins they outnumbered a hundred and three, But oh, he was perfectly gorgeous to see, The Pirate Don Durk of Dowdee. Rest in Peace. - Posted by: Joan Martin nee Kehler (Teacher) on: Jan 07, 2015

• My heart goes out to the Pauls family. Growing up as a neighbor to the Pauls I was lucky enough to spend many days and nights with their family. As a young kid, Mike, their son was like a brother to me. We had most of our Bedson classmates and some teachers believing we were brothers up until Grade 2. As for Mr and Mrs Pauls, they were like second parents for me growing up. There's not enough space on this page to start and finish the stories and experiences that I shared with Mike and his family. They always made me feel welcome in their home or cottage at Rabbit Lake. It would be an understatement to say that Mike and I gave Harry and Betty a few grey hairs. On occasion Harry had to drop the hammer on Mike and I for getting into trouble, but I always knew deep down inside he was laughing uncontrollably at what had done. He was a great role model and loved to elaborate on a lesson learned. I thank Harry, Betty and the rest of the family for all the cherished memories I had growing up. Love you guys. - Posted by: Gary Paul (family friend) on: Jan 07, 2015

• How sorry I am to hear about the passing of your father, Heather. I am thinking about you today and praying that your family will have the strength to get through this difficult time. With love from Calgary, Angie - Posted by: Angie Tucker (Rands) () on: Jan 07, 2015

• Deepest condolences to Mr. Harry Pauls’ family on behalf of Barbara Laham (former colleague) and family (Charles, Bahia, Michelle and Christina - all former students at SHCI from 85-94). To Mr. Pauls...Thank you! You were a great teacher who made learning IB English Literature interesting! - Posted by: Laham Family (former Colleague in St. James School Division & former IB students at Silver Heights) on: Jan 07, 2015

• This is a man who impacted many people, as defined by the numerous memorials. I too was an English student of Mr. Pauls. He definitely challenged his students, always pushing us to do our best. He treated all of us as adults preparing us for further education. He shared his skills in writing, which helped me at U of M. The open discussions that he encouraged developed our confidence to share our opinions with others. Mr. Pauls was probably the most influential teacher I had. Those who had the good fortune to know him, know he made a huge contribution to many. - Posted by: Suzanne Stewart Schumacher (student, Silver Hiehts Class of 83) on: Jan 07, 2015

• My sympathies for the Pauls family, especially Cam and Cindy who I became friends with in law school. I had the good fortune of studying with Mr. Pauls for IB English; he was the consummate teacher - everything one could want or hope for in an educator. He shared his passion and love of literature with so many, and touched so many lives; if he was that good with students I can only imagine that he was an incredible husband, father, and grandfather, and will be sorely missed. - Posted by: Michele Geiger-Wolf (Former Student (SHCI Class of 85)) on: Jan 07, 2015

• My sincerest condolences to the Pauls family. I can only really echo what has been said about him here by my fellow Silver Heights students. I count Mr Pauls as one of the reasons I eventually fell in love with scholarship, and began to read properly instead of glossing over texts for the sake of getting them 'done'. Having been chastised by him on more than one occasion for not having lived up to whatever my potential was, his approach was normally one of humour mixed with a healthy dose of sarcasm, while his effect was to make me realise how little I actually knew. It is a privilege to be counted among those who can say he was their teacher. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: James Siemens (Student (Silver Heights Collegiate, Class of '90)) on: Jan 07, 2015

• I remember Harry with fondness both as a great teacher and church member. Harry was one of my Dad's best friends in the church choir and I will hold Harry's family in prayer in the days ahead. - Posted by: Ross Lockhart (SCUC and SHCI Alumnus) on: Jan 07, 2015

• In 1962 when Harry and I were students at United College, I requested to read his essay on "King Lear". 'Of course', he replied, and invited me. As I read, I was increasingly impressed, moved, struck. He was able to examine complexity, ambiguity, nuance with clarity, force, economy. 'If only I could write like Harry', I remember thinking. After I had read the paper, I sat quietly, stunned, discouraged, yet in some peculiar way, encouraged. After a silence, I said, 'Harry, I wish I could think and write as you can'. 'I'm sure you can,' he replied with quiet and reassuring voice. 'No I cannot, but maybe ... someday'. His kind confidence touched. In 1971, after another summer English course, I met Harry on the grounds of the University of Winnipeg. 'Harry', I said, 'I can finally think and write as well as you could in 1962.' 'But you always could,' he replied. 'Harry', I remember saying, 'you know I couldn't ... until now.' A defining moment. Dr. Bedford had just given me an A+ in both the essays and the course, and I had met Harry to share my glee. Even then, Harry's supportive smile suggested, 'but you always could.' Years later as consultant, I was asked to orchestrate an in-service for the high school English teachers in the St. James Division. In trepidation, I prepared ... meticulously. What could I possibly offer a Harry. He sat in the corner, back seat to my right - involved, searching, exploring, encouraging. When great ones like Harry can be as children, I remember thinking, I know I've experienced the greatness of the great. Thanks Harry! Unsurprising to read the touching tributes of your former students. rudi engbrecht - Posted by: Rudi Engbrecht (Colleague) on: Jan 06, 2015

• I was one of the thousands of students who passed through Harry's Grade 12 English class. He inspired me to pursue the study of literature and to become the writer and teacher I am today. Interestingly, I later had the pleasure of studying with Peter at UW, and he was just as fine a teacher as Harry. It must run in the family! Rest in peace, Harry. - Posted by: Dianne (Student SJCI) on: Jan 06, 2015

• Mr. Pauls was absolutely one of the best. I will always be grateful for his patient guidance of a poor English student. He managed to instil both a love of Shakespeare and Dickens in a mind more receptive to Top 40 hits and weekend plans. I think it's only fitting that when I heard of his passing the first words that came to mind were "Oh Captain, my Captain." - Posted by: Lindsay (Former Student) on: Jan 06, 2015

• We were fortunate in our teachers at Silver Heights, and Mr. Pauls was one of the shining stars. He was more interested in our being honestly affected by what we were reading and discussing, rather than just putting in time to get over curriculum requirements. He refused to condescend, treating us with all the respect we felt we had a right to -- that is, more than we probably deserved. I'm stunned when I think about how many lives he touched in that way; I just hope that knowing this is some comfort to his family and friends at this tough time. My condolences. - Posted by: Kevin Matthews ((student, Silver Heights class of '89)) on: Jan 06, 2015

• Thank you Mr. Pauls for everything you taught us! You will be fondly remembered by my sisters (Margaret and Mabel), brother-in-law (Brent) and me. You were an incredible teacher. To the Pauls family, we are very sorry for your loss. Please know that Mr. Pauls positively impacted many of his students over the years. We were lucky. We used to see him walk by our parents' house every so often and had the opportunity to say hello. What a great man! - Posted by: Malinda Lee (Former Student) on: Jan 06, 2015

• I was a student of Harry Pauls early in his teaching career in Altona. He was always my favorite teacher. First of all, he knew how to relate to adolescent boys while at the same time keeping his authority. He was close to us in age at the time and grew up Mennonite in Southern Manitoba and so empathized with us, kidded around with us (often with an irreverent edge which was so welcome and unusual, not a shred of piety), but never tried to be one of us. It was such a delicate balance but he managed it. He was also a great role model for boys, showing us how to be an adult without being boring, narrow or dull. He was a vibrant person with a great sense of humour, he inspired us with his love of literature, and he just had this great life force in him and this wonderful sense of inner confidence as he strode about the school. Harry is unforgettable and will always be remembered as one of the most vital mentors in my growing up. - Posted by: Eric Friesen (student) on: Jan 06, 2015

• My deepest condolences to the family of Harry Pauls. He was my favorite of many beloved teachers at Silver Heights. How I remember his caustic wit & curmudgeonly persona never quite hiding a deep interest & commitment to his students & his subject. He guided me through my IB extended essay, introduced me to Greek tragedy and Aristotle, and fostered in me an abiding love of good literature and clear writing. I regard him as one of my most formative mentors and was so glad to see him again at the SCHI 50th reunion in 2007. This past Christmas while in Winnipeg I found myself thinking of him often. He will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Elin Goulden (SHCI student 1984-87) on: Jan 06, 2015

• Harry Pauls was an inspiring educator of substance and depth. He challenged and encouraged students to find their limits and then push beyond them. Harry Pauls had philosophical and spiritual depth, and brought his passion for excellence to every activity he did in life. His own life sets the standards for how life may be lived at its finest and most honourable. Dedicated to teaching, his love of ideas was infectious. He pondered life's mysteries deeply, and shared his insights during classes, often in the form of musings or questions. He will be missed and there is a hole now in the world that no other can fill. My condolences to family, friends, collegues and fellow students. A wonderful novel was written by Harry's life, many chapters of which consist of the life stories of those inspired and influenced by him. - Posted by: David Organ, B.A. (Hons.), M.A. (Student, St. James Collegiate, 1972, Grade XII) on: Jan 06, 2015

• I became friends with Harry's son Cam in grade 9 over a mutual love of music and the Lake of the Woods area. Through our high school years, Harry patiently put up with garage bands set up in his basement, blaring music, gatherings of kids playing various sports behind Bedson school and using his house for home base, sleep overs, me and others tormenting Mike and Heather, the list goes on and on. Throughout all the mayhem, there was Harry, smiling, laughing, giving us jabs, biting his tongue at times, giving advice at times, getting grey hair at times, but always there, always supportive and always Harry. I will ALWAYS have a very soft spot in my heart for Harry and Betty, for opening their doors to me, providing a refuge as my parents went through a divorce, a meal, a sleepover, and just including me in their family unit when things were rough. I'm heartbroken for Betty, Cam and Heather, as well as their extended family, but to soften the blow, I can imagine Harry and Mike, along with Sandy, together again, out in the canoe, trying to catch that elusive Muskie. Condolences from the Parker family, we will see everyone on Wednesday. - Posted by: Mike Parker () on: Jan 05, 2015

• He was a man, take him for all in all. I shall not look upon his like again. Mr. Pauls was one-in-a-million. He was engaging, inspirational, hilarious and knew how to truly connect with students. With respect. - Posted by: Marni Wachs (Zuke) (Former student) on: Jan 05, 2015

• The conversations we shared related to our teaching assignments and classroom experience will be treasured as long as my memory exists. Too bad even the good have a defined life span. - Posted by: James Friesen (teacher at St.James Collegiate) on: Jan 05, 2015

• We had the good fortune to know Harry as both a friend and colleague. We had the opportunity to spend a number of wonderful times with him in Kenora at the cottages and on a grand canoeing experience with his sons one summer. Through those events we saw and learned of his enthusiasm for life and his family. This enthusiasm was also evident even after retirement when he spoke of his experiences while mentoring student teachers for the faculty of Education. We extend our deepest condolences to Betty and all the family. Patricia and Gary Hamilton - Posted by: Gary and Pat Hamilton (friends and colleagues) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Like so many others, Harry Pauls had a great influence on my life and on my career path. Harry goaded, prodded and cajoled me into doing better, writing better, thinking better and I believe it was because of Harry that I became an author, a syndicated columnist, and broadcaster. I was thrilled to be able to tell him how much he meant to my life. I wasn't always the easiest kid to deal with, but he seemed to instinctively know when to use the carrot and when the stick. He was kind and had a lovely, sly and sometimes naughty wit about him that made every class an adventure. The Laws of Physics, in the Law of Conservation, tell us that every speck of matter and every flicker of energy that has existed since the dawn of time still exists today. All that changes is the form: energy to light, light to plant growth, plant growth to food source, food source to energy ... the cycles are infinite and ongoing. What that means is that the essential qualities that Harry had - his sense of humour, his wisdom, his energy, his joy and love and delight and compassion - still exist, even if the broken vessel that held them failed. It is odd that at the time of our most spiritual challenges, we can take comfort in something that comes directly to us from science. I don't need to be a Hindu or a Christian, don't need to have studied metaphysics or the stars or Zen Buddhism, I don't even need faith. I just need to know that the most essential parts of our loved ones will go on, simply because the immutable laws of science make it impossible for them to not. So will it be with Harry. I find that immensely comforting. - Posted by: Nils Ling (Student, SJCI 72) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Mr. Pauls was an inspiring, gifted teacher who knew how to bring together erudition and humour in a way that I have rarely encountered throughout my life's learning experiences. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family. - Posted by: Jeff Steele (Student, Silver Heights Collegiate, Class of '89) on: Jan 05, 2015

• I just want Betty and their family to know how sad I am for you and will keep you in my prayers - Posted by: Marg Bergen French (Betty's friend & former Nursing student) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Mr.Pauls (he will always be Mr.) was a great English teacher. He introduced the idea to an idiot kid that not all protagonists are likeable and some ideas beloved by all may not be right. It has been well over 23 years since graduation but to this day, the most loved and hated book I have read was introduced by this superlative teacher. - Posted by: George (former stdent) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Thanks Mr.Pauls. Both my sister Kerry and myself had the opportunity of being taught by you at SJCI. Its been a few years but you were one of the most consistent and forgiving teachers I had. Thank you. - Posted by: Rob Strom (Former Student ) on: Jan 05, 2015

• I always loved Mr.Pauls classes, he was pithy and witty and entertaining, I have to admit his was a class I rarely missed. I had a love of language, but his teaching and obvious love of his subject matter made me love langauage all the more. Our sincere condolences to his famiy, friends, students and former co-workers. We'll miss you. - Posted by: Gaynor Henry (nee Powell) (Student) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Betty, I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. In God's Blessing, Marilyn Curry - Posted by: Marilyn Curry (Choir Friend ) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Thanks for showing me what the "English" language has to offer! Learned so much about literature. Mr. Pauls had such enthusiasm and compassionate love for the greatest books ever written and loved to share that with all his students! Rest in Peace. - Posted by: Karen Tristram (Lemon) (Student - Silver Heights Collegiate (1984-1987)) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Mr Pauls was a superb teacher and he instilled in me a love of Shakespeare that has continued for 30 years. His editing of my essays was always constructive and detailed. He truly cared about his students. I hope there is a special place in heaven for him. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family. - Posted by: Kim Diamond (SHCI student 1983-85) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Mr. Pauls was a wonderful teacher with a genuine, infectious enthusiasm for his subject; he could find the engaging spark in the dullest of books. Many of my high school classes are distant memories, but I still remember so many of the lessons he imparted. I'm sure he is partially to thank for my having a career in writing and editing. I vividly remember the day he held me back after class to speak to me about an essay on which he'd given me an A-minus grade. "You didn't read the book, did you?" he asked. I shook my head, waiting for the hammer to fall. "You are the queen of BS," he said. "That is a skill that will serve you well, in university and in life. I can't punish that." Wise words that have proven very accurate over the years. My sympathies to his family. May it bring you some comfort to know that he was loved and appreciated by his many students, and that he truly made a difference in many lives. - Posted by: Jill Wilson (Former student (SHCI)) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Harry was an inspiration to me, and is a large part of the reason why I chose to become a high school English teacher. It was a privilege to have studied under him, and even more of a privilege to have had the opportunity to spend time under his tutelage during my education practicum. His combination of scholarly rigor, irreverent wit and good-natured approachability made him one of my favorite teachers, and in my current teaching career, I have based my educational philosophy on what I learned from Harry. I was fortunate to have had a chance to talk to him at Dennis Schroefel's funeral (even if I am convinced that he left wondering who I was :) ), and had a chance to tell him how much of an impact he had on my teaching career. He will be sorely missed. "O captain, my captain!" - Posted by: Kevin Peden (Student, Silver Heights class of '89) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Harry Pauls influenced my life more than close family or friends did. He taught me to find myself through a love of language and literature and gave me a confidence in myself that, like many teeange girls, I struggled with. He was funny, caring and wise beyond all earthly measure. I was truly blessed to have passed through his classroom, and I never forgot him. He was a gift to all of us and will be lovingly remembered every time we enjoy a great read or discover a new poem that changes the way we see the world. - Posted by: Sher Kirk (Student, Silver Heights Collegiate 1983-85) on: Jan 05, 2015

• My condolences to all the Pauls family. Harry was a wonderful teacher whose impact went well beyond the classroom and our years at SHCI. I am grateful to God for his life and witness and for the privilege of having studied with him. With sympathy - Rob Fennell - Posted by: Rob Fennell (SCUC and SHCI alumnus) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Mr. Pauls is one of the most influential teachers in my life. I count myself as one of the few fortunate Silver Heights students who were able to study under him. His passion for literature was contagious and many of his students, including myself, became lovers of fine literary works. He introduced me to the works of modern philosophers, such as Bertrand Russell, Albert Camus and William James. He laid a strong foundation for my academic life and gave me a philosophical toolbox that I found indispensable in my journey on Earth. God has indeed blessed him and his students. Mr. Pauls, I hope I will see you again in heaven. - Posted by: Paul C Lee MD (Student, Silver Height Class of 1987) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Harry epitomized what every teacher should strive for, but few attain - uncompromised standards and values! Thank you for our many shared laughs, memories and most of all your unwavering friendship. - Posted by: Steve Cara (Friend & Colleague) on: Jan 05, 2015

• Dear Betty and family. My heart goes out to you all. This is a great loss. The patriarch of your family. Harry was indeed a loving family man. He was one of my dearest cherished friends. Betty, when you and I worked together at St. Boniface Hospital, I had no idea the delightful surprise my future would hold. When I met your husband I liked him right away. I found Harry easy to talk to. Betty, Harry and I had many meals and many hours of meaningful conversation. Conversation about life, religion, history, family, gardening, and the deep joys and sorrows that if we choose to share with special friends, adds meaning and purpose to our life. Harry was a real person. He was well-rounded. I loved his sense of humor. I did so admire his green thumb. His gardens are legendary. Assiniboine Park has nothing on Harry!!! I enjoyed a few cups of coffee in those gardens and you could tell Harry was in his glory, enjoying the fruits of his labor. Harry was also a great scholar. As he majored in English, he was one of my proofreaders for my masters thesis in psychology. Every single page had red markings on it. I felt like a grade 3 student!!! When I made the corrections, and I made every one, when I read it out loud it flowed so much better. Harry you sure knew your English. And it was fun discussing literary works with you. Betty, I look forward to shopping for plants in the spring with you. We will toast Harry's memory as we buy some beautiful flowers. I have tears in my eyes as I write this. I will forever miss you Harry and I will especially think of you in the summer and spring when the world is in beautiful bloom. Rest in peace my dear dear friend. Nina (friend) - Posted by: Nina (Friend) on: Jan 05, 2015