It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Paul Lemoine, aged 70, of Sydney, Nova Scotia. Paul left us on December 17, 2024, after a brave battle with illness, surrounded by family and loved ones at home, leaving an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew him.
Born on May 5, 1954, in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Paul was the son of the late Charles and Simone (Boudreau) Lemoine. He was raised in the vibrant community of Sydney, where he forged deep connections and made lifelong friends. Paul’s early life was defined by his love of the outdoors, his deep affection for his family, and his natural curiosity. He had a reputation for being a kind and caring individual, always ready with a helping hand or a friendly word.
Paul’s journey through life was marked by his dedication to his work and his love for his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Clara (MacDonald) Lemoine, whom he married in 1980. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and shared dreams. Their partnership was the foundation of a family that would grow to include three children—Catherine, Michael, and Elizabeth—and later, grandchildren who brought Paul immense joy.
Paul was an industrious man who made a significant contribution to the community throughout his career. A skilled tradesman, he worked in construction and maintenance, becoming well-known for his meticulous attention to detail and his strong work ethic. Over the years, Paul’s expertise and reliability made him a sought-after professional, and he earned the respect of his colleagues and clients alike.
Beyond his professional life, Paul was a passionate community member. He was actively involved in various local organizations, lending his time and talents to causes he cared about. His generosity extended beyond his work—he was a volunteer at the local community center, where he organized fundraising events, and he supported initiatives that benefited those in need. His commitment to helping others was rooted in his belief in the importance of family, friendship, and community.
Paul’s love for the outdoors remained a defining feature of his life. He was an avid fisherman, often spending hours on the waters of the Bras d’Or Lakes, where he found peace and solace. His love for nature was also evident in his gardening, which he approached with the same dedication and care he brought to all aspects of his life. Family gatherings in the summer often included barbecues and strolls through Paul’s well-tended garden, where he took great pride in sharing the fruits of his labor with those he loved.
In addition to his love for nature, Paul had a deep appreciation for music. He was a talented guitarist and spent many evenings playing for friends and family. His favorite moments were those spent with his children and grandchildren, teaching them the basics of music and passing on the joy of playing an instrument.
Paul’s warmth and compassion were felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a man of integrity, always living his life with honesty and respect for others. His quiet strength, generosity, and unwavering support made him a pillar of the Sydney community. He touched many lives, and his loss is felt deeply by those who were lucky enough to call him a friend, neighbor, or loved one.
In addition to his wife, Clara, Paul is survived by his three children, Catherine (Jonathan) Rogers, Michael (Rebecca) Lemoine, and Elizabeth Lemoine, as well as his grandchildren, Olivia, Jacob, and Sophia. He also leaves behind his sisters, Denise (Larry) McCormick and Suzanne Lemoine, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Simone Lemoine.
Paul’s passing is a tremendous loss to his family and community. His kind-hearted nature, steady presence, and selflessness will never be forgotten. In his life, Paul exemplified the values of love, generosity, and respect, and he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at the Sydney Memorial Chapel on Thursday, December 21, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation in Paul’s memory, a cause that was dear to his heart.
Paul Lemoine was a man whose impact on his family, friends, and community will be remembered for generations. While he may no longer walk among us, his spirit will continue to live on in the memories of those who had the privilege of knowing him. The world is a little dimmer without him, but his legacy of love and kindness will forever shine brightly.
