Obituary of Paul Rene Van Torre

How do you describe sorrow? On June 24th, 2021, Paul Van Torre, age 69, passed away suddenly at home. He was the son of the late Roy (1995) and Leona Van Torre (nee Lewylle) (2011). He leaves behind wife and soulmate Wendy Van Torre (nee Cleveland). Paul was an awesome dad to Amy and Kevin, both now in Ottawa. 

He will be sadly missed by his siblings Laura Simpson (David), and Dave Van Torre. In Wendy's family Paul changed from brother-in-law to brother for Blair Cleveland, Gary Cleveland (Maheen Saeed), and Mark Cleveland. He could always make Ruth Cleveland laugh. "My favourite son-in-law" she'd say.

He was a fun-loving Uncle for Craig, Ken (Justine), John, Paula, Gibran, and Maya. He was looking forward to playing with the next generation, Evan and Aurora Simpson. Many cousins were also his friends and of course there are many friends who felt Paul was family. Memories of him will live on. 

Paul genuinely loved people. He loved to socialize and gather at events. Many will remember him from his carpentry and construction work with R.J. Van Torre & Sons. Nearing age 40, Paul returned to school, earned a degree, but declined a scholarship so he could continue to raise his kids. Always energetic, this was the guy who worked a long day and then played tennis or basketball afterwards. In later years, he loved playing golf and pool; anything with a good spin shot. 

There was a deep kindness in Paul and he tended to root for the underdog - in football, in golf, or life in general. We don't recall him reciting the Golden Rule, but he lived it every day. Speechless in front of a microphone, this man constantly made the people around him laugh. He was loyal and honest. We are very sad that delays in surgery were caused for people like Paul because of the COVID-19 Pandemic and crowded hospitals. Please vaccinate. 

Family and friends will be received at the Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim, on Wednesday, June 30th, 2021 from 2 to 4pm and 6 to 9pm. Those hoping to attend the Visitation must register by phone (519-676-3451) or via the following link: CLICK HERE. 

The Bereavement Authority of Ontario has mandated that all in attendance must wear a mask. 

A Private Memorial Service will be held on Thursday afternoon, with interment to follow in Craford Cemetery. 

Friends of Paul Van Torre are invited to join us as we celebrate his life atDeer Run Golf Course on Saturday, October 9, 2021 from2 pm to 5 pm. Starting with a few memories & stories.

Drop in anytime! 

Donations may be made to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, or to a charity of your choice. And, as soon as it is safe - give a hug to all those folks you love. 

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. 

McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim, 519-676-3451