In Celebration of

Paul Aikins

February 9, 1965 -  May 25, 2019

It is with deep sadness that the family of Paul Francis Aikins (DOB February 9, 1965) announce his sudden and unexpected passing on May 25, 2019. Paul died peacefully at the home he shared with the love of his life and partner of 24 years, Fred Bergman.

Paul is survived by his mother, Joan and late father Dr. Joe, his siblings Judy & Glenn Krelove, the late Cathy (who we lost just 6 months ago), Anne Marie, John & Cynthia, Joe & Andrea, Tom & Jan, Patti & Eric Mesdag, Peter & Linda (who Paul & Fred shared a cottage with for 19 years), Jenny, and Mike & Marny.

Paul was also cherished by Fred’s family: his late mother and father-in-law, Fred & Eileen Bergman, Pat Rankin, Jo-Ann & Matt Daly, and Lois & Nick Morotta.

Simply an adoring and adored uncle and great-uncle, Paul’s passing has deeply impacted his many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, as well as all of his extended family.

Paul loved his successful career in music theatre but eventually became a teacher to share his gifts and passion with young people. He’s been on staff at Etobicoke School of Arts for the past 20 years and was department head for 10 years. He was the artistic director for the four-time grand champion Canadian Show Choir SPLASH; was featured in the CBC special ‘Great Lives of Canadian Teachers’ and also the Canadian Screen Award winning ‘Best Arts Documentary UNSUNG - Behind the Glee’.

Paul changed many lives as a teacher and we know his students both former and current are devastated and the entire ESA community is mourning this terrible loss.

Paul was larger than life so his many many family members, incredible friends and colleagues, talented students and his fans who loved his performances are left heartbroken at this unbelievable end much too early. Paul would want the celebration of his life to be grand and like his life, create a legacy that will live on. Fred is planning something appropriately theatrical and we will share more in the coming days. In the meantime, please feel free to contribute to the Paul Aikins Memorial Scholarship Fund at ESA:

https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?donation=esa (copy & paste this link and donate using a desktop only)

Paul’s immediate family will gather to try to say goodbye as he takes his final bow on Thursday, May 30, 2019 at the Turner & Porter Funeral home, 2357 Bloor St West near Paul & Fred’s home in Etobicoke.

Rest In Peace Paul ❤️

Guestbook 

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Liz Harjes (Friend)

Entered May 27, 2019 from Etobicoke

So sorry to hear. To young and will be very missed

Melissa Michailidis (Friend and colleague)

Entered May 27, 2019 from Mississauga

My deepest sympathy to all of Paul's family and friends. He was inspirational, a strong leader and the heart of the Music Theater department. We now all face a tremendous loss.

Barb Smith (Friend)

Entered May 28, 2019 from York

Condolences to Fred and Paul's family and friends at this difficult time. Rest in peace Paul. You will be missed !
Dr Barb

Mary-Lu Zahalan (Friend)

Entered May 28, 2019 from Stoney Creek, On

Paul was kind enough to allow me to do some research with his students at ESA. He was gracious, enthusiastic and proud of his students and his work. I work with several graduates of ESA and they all spoke very highly of him. He will be missed. Sending my deepest sympathies to his family.

Darren E Black (Former Colleague)

Entered May 28, 2019 from Burlington

When I arrived at ESA in 2010, I was immediately struck by Paul's drive and energy. He gave me great advice on how to do the work well while still surviving! :)
I was impressed by the number of initiatives coming out of the Musical Theatre department and the enthusiasm of his students. His devotion to the work was truly a calling. I am so very sorry for his passing. He will be greatly missed by all. Darren

Photos 

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