Paul Snickars – Obituary –

September 23, 1933 – April 20, 2024

In loving memory ~

Paul was born in Finland on September 23, 1933 and died peacefully with his family by his side at Trillium Hospice in Parksville on April 20, 2024. Our hearts are broken as we sadly say goodbye to a kind, generous man who had such a profound experience had. impact in the lives of so many people and a genuine concern for others.

His first wartime years were difficult, but he took a giant step and emigrated to Canada, leaving his family behind. With hard work and determination, he rose to management at the Hudson’s Bay Company and ended his career in the provincial government at the Ministry of Consumer Affairs as a clerk.

He was a caring, thoughtful, intelligent person with an inquiring mind, who had the ability to strike up friendly conversation with complete strangers. His wife Pat accompanied him as they visited 5 continents and more than 40 countries, often off the beaten path. They spent many winters in Bucerias, Mexico, and regularly visited family in Finland, Sweden and the US

He enjoyed sports and following sports on TV, especially hockey and athletics. Everything stopped when the Olympic Games were scheduled. His garden was a showpiece with dahlias and flower boxes full of geraniums. Large quantities of tomatoes and vegetables were grown to share with friends.

He loved music in all forms, but his favorite was New Orleans jazz. He loved dogs and cats, fishing in the ocean, spending time in his RV, entertaining, good food and the occasional glass of red wine with family and friends.

Sadly, his beloved daughter Carol Bajkov predeceased Paul last year. He is mourned by his wife of 53 years Pat, son John, son-in-law Phil Bajkov, grandchildren Matt/Lisa Bajkov, Lara/Kevin Pederson, and four beautiful great-grandchildren Claire, Mason, Parker and Jaden. Brother Kaj in Finland and many nieces, nephews and cousins ​​in Finland and Sweden, and his cousins ​​Korpi in the US. Not to be forgotten are his loyal and devoted friends. He was deeply loved and felt blessed to have such a large number of caring family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice at Trillium Parksville, who took such wonderful care of Paul and family.

Thank you to all the nurses and volunteers in Nanaimo, Parksville and our VIHA team. A special thank you to Dr. Beck, Dr. Hunter and nurses Colleen, Crystal, Carolyn and Will.

Yates Memorial Services