Remembering Doc Paul

To say that Dr. Donald J. Paul was a pillar of the CGMH family would be understating the impact he had on our Hospital and our community. Right up to his passing in December 2024, Doc as he was affectionately known to his friends, had a hand in just about every important project that went on in Collingwood.

Don Paul moved to Collingwood in 1960 with his lovely wife Joan, continuing his career as a general practitioner. He was born and raised in the South Porcupine area of Northern Ontario. Don loved the small-town life of Collingwood and the sense of camaraderie and mutual respect he found in the Medical Staff at CGMH. It wasn’t long until he identified a significant need at CGMH and he left his general practice to return to Medical School to complete his in-depth training in Radiology. He returned to CGMH as Chief of Radiology in 1975, a position in which he served with distinction until his retirement in 2002.

During his time at CGMH, Don also actively served on the Board of the CGMH Foundation and took on leadership positions in a variety of capital campaigns. After his retirement, Don continued to be a source of guidance and motivation in numerous fundraising projects.

As generous donors themselves, Don and Joan understood the significant impact the community’s support had on patient care. They used their knowledge and expertise to educate and inform those around them on the critical importance of medical equipment and technology – especially Diagnostic Imaging technology, Don’s favourite topic.

Almost 25 years after his retirement, Don could walk through the halls of CGMH and still be greeted with affection and respect by so many physicians and staff. His imprint on CGMH is indelible.

“Don was an amazing mentor and a true friend. His passing leaves a hole in the fabric of our community but the lessons he taught us about community engagement and support will never fade.”

Jory Pritchard-Kerr, CGMH Foundation President & CEO