PAUL WILLIAM GILSON

Paul William Gilson was born on June 20, 1952, and passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, at the age of 74. He was the husband of Susan and the father of John, whose spouse is Sylvia, and Jennifer, whose spouse is Nick. He was a grandfather to James, Michael, Willem and David, and a brother to Brian, Marg, Peter and Eleanor. Gilson’s athletic achievements included two OUA heavyweight wrestling championships, two Canadian National silver medals, and being named the 1975 University of Guelph Athlete of the Year. He later coached football and wrestling at institutions such as Cedarbrae Collegiate, St. Michael's College School, Upper Canada College and York University. His professional life encompassed roles as a teacher, correctional officer and Presbyterian lay preacher. Gilson earned multiple degrees, including master’s degrees in Theology from the University of Toronto and in Naval Warfare from American Military University, along with numerous certificates. He volunteered with food banks, his church and the Legion, and donated blood more than 160 times. A celebration of life will be held by his family, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Scarborough Health Network Foundation.