Paul Astren

September 19, 2023

In loving memory ~

It is with sadness we announce the passing of Paul Astren on September 19. Paul was surrounded by family and those that cared for him. He was predeceased by his parents Einar and Eva and sister Raili. He is survived by his brothers Jouko (Joan), Henry (Andrea) and Harri (Deanna). He also had numerous nieces and nephews who were a large part of his life. Paul was born in New Westminster in 1956 and spent his early years living in Port Coquitlam. His family then moved to Port Alberni and Parksville. Paul then spent his remaining years living with family in Ladysmith. Paul had a wonderful, positive spirit and his enthusiasm for life touched many people and left lasting impressions. Paul attended numerous community organizations; FOCUS in Parksville and the Community Link Program in Ladysmith. He made friends wherever he went and these friendships sustained him throughout the years. Paul enjoyed his time working at the COCO Cafe, loved serving the public, helping at their catering events and enjoyed the comradery there. While working at the Coco Café Paul always looked forward to payday Fridays, which routinely resulted in his purchase of a Pepsi, Barbecue Chips and TV guide. The following organizations, FOCUS (Parksville) Coco café (Cedar) and the Community Link Program (Ladysmith) were inclusive places where Paul thrived.

Paul had many people in his life who cared about him and cared for him. We are very grateful for his support workers, Kim (FOCUS) in Parksville, Diane, Sheri, Wendy, Andrew (Community Link Program) in Ladysmith, Sydney (COCO Café) and Mike for supporting Paul's dream to play in a band, Christiane for community support and Hannah for community trips. There were many additional folks in the community who were so very embracing of Paul. We wish to acknowledge his peer group in Ladysmith for their ongoing friendships.

We wish to express our sincere thanks and acknowledge the staff on the Blue Heron Unit at Age Care (Chase River) especially Leslie and Gia and Connie for their compassionate support. We will miss Paul but know he was ready to carry on with his journey.

A celebration of Paul's' life will be held on Sunday, October 1 at the Eagles Hall, Ladysmith at 1:30. To honour Paul, please do a kind deed, or consider what inclusion means to you.