My buddy Paul was truly one of a kind. He probably should have been a performer/actor with his undeniable presence. No one could tell a story or joke quite like Paul. He was a straight shooter with a wicked sense of humour and a gentle nature, but at the same time don't ruffle his feathers as he was as tough as nails when warranted, but mostly he was thick skinned like a gator, always cool, calm and collected, like he would say, "water off a duck's back" Paul always had a few books on the go, often involving naval history, but the Economist was his Bible. He was always looking for the next issue in the mail. After reading it cover to cover, he would drop it off at the Pub for another mate like Tommy. He loved the Marina lifestyle and sailboats in particular. I never did convert him to power boating and he never managed to convert me into a Coronation Street fan. He had a thing for gold rings and necklaces(as I called them to rib him). Of course, he would promptly correct me as they were chains not necklaces. I often jokingly called him cheap regarding his purchasing habits knowing he would immediately say "frugal not cheap". We agreed to disagree, but when it came to friends or strangers, Paul was extremely generous. Yes, he loved Goodwill, especially once a month when they had 50% off everything in the store. He would scout the store a few days in advance. He enjoyed the flea markets as well. I would often leave him at St. Lawrence Market in Toronto to snoop around. He bought various sterling silver pieces and one time got a deal for a clarinet for one of the grand kids. He loved company and instantaneously made friends wherever he went, but he was content on his own as well, especially when relaxing with a book in his yard while the rabbits were hopping around and feeding on his grass. He fondly recalled Oldham. He bragged how back in the day Oldham had more cotton mills than any other city in the world. He often talked of his 100 mile bicycle trips he and some buddies would take with a few stops along the way for refreshments at the local establishments. He loved the coal fireplace growing up and would often remind me he was an altar boy when he thought the timing was right. He certainly was proud of his roots. Mostly, I will never forget how Paul and I could talk for hours and hours without a lull and never be bored. It was a lot of nonstop laughter, but Paul greatly enjoyed a verbal joust, a robust debate which I did as well. But, since we agreed on most subjects, sometimes we might have to resort to hurling a few insults at one another to spice up our conversation. We both enjoyed that and it would lead to more laughter. We had a special bond You will be missed Paul, a big loss for all of us