ELORA – Paul Walker will be remembered as a tireless volunteer and community advocate who was always thinking of others.
The Elora resident and president of the Grand River Agricultural Society (GRAS) passed away suddenly on Sept. 25 at Guelph General Hospital. He was 66.
“Paul was an incredible advocate for growth and change in our community,” said Jamie Martin, director of operations Grand River Raceway, which is operated by GRAS.
“Paul acted with so much passion and perseverance that he leaves a lasting legacy at GRAS.
“He will be so sincerely missed by colleagues and community alike.”
Walker had served on the GRAS board since 2006 and has been president since 2007.
Some knew him as a 40-year employee of the LCBO, including many years as manager of the Elora store, during which he organized many charity events.
Others got to know Walker during his years with the Elora and Centre Wellington chambers of commerce.
With the latter, he was given the President’s Award in 2006 in recognition of his many charity fundraisers, and was named Corporate Citizen of the Year in 2014 in recognition of his role with the local LCBO.
“Paul was a pillar in our community and a constant with our Chamber of Commerce, dedicating many years as a volunteer board member to support and advocate for local businesses,” said Dana Burdenuk, general manager of the Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce.
“Paul’s many contributions through his chamber work were significant and invaluable.
“We are honoured to have known him well and we will miss him more than words can say.”
Walker was also a member of the economic development advisory committee for the Township of Centre Wellington and a longtime volunteer with the Elora Festival.
Those close to him fondly recall his love of sports, especially golf.
Walker is predeceased by his wife Yolanda (2017) and survived by his brother Brent and sister Leslie Cross as well as many other family members and close friends.
“Paul was an extraordinary man who loved his community and volunteered his time to many organizations,” notes his obituary.
Family members have decided to have a Celebration of Life at the Grand River Raceway in Elora when COVID-19 restrictions will allow his many friends and co-workers to attend.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Graham A Giddy Funeral Home.
Donations in Walker’s memory can be made to the “Make a Wish” children’s charity or the Guelph Humane Society building fund.
