Obituary of Paul Augustine Sheehan

It is in loving memory that we announce, Paul Augustine Sheehan, son of Jim and Alma Sheehan (pre-deceased), died, age 79, in Peterborough, Ontario, on April 9th, 2025. He said goodbye to his brothers John and Greg, sisters-in-law Sharon and Bridie, his nieces Katie and Hannah, and nephew Matt.

During a short hospital stay, he spent his final days with his best friends and daughter. Paul ultimately took his last  breath with his beloved ‘Colleen’ by his side, and was comforted by the fact that he truly believed in returning to an eternal “home”.  He will be greatly missed by, but no doubt praying for, those of us “still running our race”: his loving daughter Colleen, his supportive son-in-law Darren, and his three cherished grandchildren that he was proud to call his own - Emma, Liam and Clara Hartigan. 

Paul was a faithful son, a caring brother, a great athlete and a favorite coach. He was a loving father, doting ‘grand’ PAPA, and a fondly remembered teacher…but perhaps the greatest gift he shared, and valued, was that of being a loyal friend!

Paul was known to be funny, feisty and a faithful friend to many, however there was an extremely special place in his heart for his equally loyal friends (lovingly known as ‘His Besties’) Tammy and Greg Frost, and their kind daughters Emily and Hannah. As a lifelong lover of Lakefield, Ontario, his absence will be felt, and he will be sadly missed in this community that became so much a part of his life of late.

Paul will be remembered by many with whom he taught, and students that he touched, during his treasured teaching career in Etobicoke. Years spent at All Saints and St. Elizabeth’s Elementary, followed by memorable years at Michael Power High School and Fr. John Redmond. As a teacher and coach of almost 40 years, he thoroughly enjoyed his life’s vocation, and equally so his retirement years in Lakefield; a place dating back to his childhood.

May Paul pray for us here on earth, as we do for him; praying that perpetual light shine on him and the “road rise to meet him”.

A Mass will be held at 12 noon, on Saturday May 24th at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church in Peterborough, followed by a celebration in Paul’s favorite town of Lakefield; with a brunch held at Shakers Restaurant on Queen St. 

Please let us know (for reservation purposes), if you plan to attend by emailing elccd@outlook.com.