Paul Mullen

March 4, 1947 - October 12, 2024

In loving memory ~

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Paul Mullen. He was a kind, gentle, and soft-spoken man. Paul bravely battled Parkinson's disease, facing this struggle with courage and dignity. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and the warmth of his beloved dogs, who took turns cuddling with him in his final moments.

Paul Mullen was born in Vancouver at St. Paul's Hospital on March 4, 1947, and spent his early years between Powell River and West Vancouver. He was one of five brothers: Brian (deceased) (Jasna), Hugh (Cheryl), Robert (Jill, deceased), and Bruce (Joanne). Their father worked as an engineer in the pulp and paper industry, inspiring Paul's own career path.

From a young age, Paul exhibited a remarkable sense of curiosity and skill, building furniture and repairing small engines. At just 14, he built his first wooden boat, a Sabot sailing dinghy. At 16, he built a second boat, a 15-foot runabout—a showcase of his ingenuity and hands-on talent. He also enjoyed playing high school basketball, among other sports. Paul graduated from the University of British Columbia in 1971 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

Paul's career spanned multiple industries, but he was first and foremost an engineer. He worked with BC Hydro, where he met Joyce Hatch (now Joyce Murphy). They married in 1978 and together built a family full of love and memories. He built his first house at the top of Mountain Highway. For his second house, which straddled a double lot, he moved it sideways four feet to new foundations so the second lot could be subdivided. Paul also worked for Canadian Airlines as a "Landing Gear Specialist," supervising the overhaul of DC-10 and B747 landing gear, which took him to a maintenance facility in Hong Kong. One of Paul's former bosses recalled, "Paul joined CP Air as a Systems Engineer in Engineering. His knowledge of metallurgy was outstanding, based on a lot of work he did at BC Hydro in mechanical apparatus."

In 1993, the family relocated from North Vancouver to a farm in Errington, BC. Paul loved the tranquility of making hay and caring for horses and cows, enjoying a cool beer after a hard day's work while watching the barn swallows feed in the evening. He was an active and dedicated member of his community, committing to roles with the Errington Volunteer Fire Department, where he served proudly. He was also an active member of the Silver Spurs Riding Club.

Paul is survived by his children, Travis, Jessica, and Kimberley Mullen (Keegan Sauder), and his grandchildren, Maisy and Zoey Mullen, who will forever cherish his memory. Anyone who knew Paul was truly blessed by his warm and gentle presence. He was an incredible man, and the lessons he taught his family and friends will endure for a lifetime.

His Service will be held at

Yates Funeral Home

November 23 @1:00pm

1000 Allsbrook Road

Parksville, BC

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