Paula Maria Danis
July 13, 1931 - August 17, 2023
Our gracious, kind, humble and witty Mom, grandmother and great-grandmother, ever so gently passed away on Thursday, August 17, 2023, at the age of 92.
Paula was predeceased by her beloved husband, Maurice Danis, in 2011. She was a loving and caring mother to Doreen and Darlene. A very special “Meme” to Dan and Diana (Steve), and her eyes lit up for her great-grandchildren, Madison and Charlotte.
Paula was born on July 13, 1931, in Roeselare, Belgium, the second oldest of eight children. She spoke so fondly of her parents and siblings, sharing entertaining stories and challenges of the war.
In 1954, Paula and Maurice bravely ventured to Canada, on their honeymoon, with pennies in their crated luggage, to build a new life. Both were passionate about farming and within years they purchased a farm of their dreams in the Sarnia area. Years of laborious and dedicated work allowed them to retire early and enjoy many years in sunny Florida.
Paula had a flair for fashion, a creative gift of gardening with an endless passion for walking many miles with a carefree zest.
We will miss her dearly but we know were so blessed to have her in our lives for so many glorious years. Her final comment will always resonate with us…. “Don’t be sad as I have lived a wonderful life”.
The family wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff, doctors, physio team and volunteers on the 7th floor Center at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital for their exceptional care.
A private family Celebration of Life will be held on August 24, 2023, at Westview Funeral Chapel, in London, Ontario. Should you wish, in lieu of flowers, a donation to a charity of your choice is preferred. Condolences on the website will be cherished by the family.
Leave a tribute for Paula Maria Danis
Leave a tribute
Darlene, Doreen and family, I was saddened to hear of the passing of your mother. Mothers, we all have them and they are truly special people. I am sorry for your loss. I love the picture chosen for her notice, she looks the same to me as she did on Daley Court. I didn't pay that much attention at the time but she sure liked to walk and at a brisk pace, such that Maurice would often walk alone so he didn't have to keep up. I have such fond memories of both your mom and dad and the time that our girls grew up in that neighbourhood. Memories to cherish for sure. My thoughts are with you. Joe Swift
A flower withers at the best of its bloom, but what remains is the memory of the splendor of colors. Condolences and whishing you lots of strength. Godelieve De Clerck - Danis Christine and Noël Van Hee - De Clerck and kids Christophe and Mieke De Clerck - Vanlerberghe and kids Belgium.
Dear Darlene, What a beautiful tribute to your beautiful mom! Loved her sense of style, grace and attitude of about life. She has passed on so many of her wonderful qualities to you my friend❤️Thinking of you and your family as you celebrate her well lived life.
Into our office walked this sharply dressed youthful woman who looked like she stepped right out of a French fashion magazine! OooLaLa was she ever an inspiration, little beret and scarf all and of course her accent which was really Flemish but as we got to know each other over the years, she would play up the French because she knew I loved it! That was Mrs. Danis! Her laugh was infectious and she filled the room with joy whenever she was around. I was so fortunate to spend time with this family as a neighbour to Darc and then as our families became friends. My parents and I adored Mr and Mrs Danis and every once in a while my dad quotes something he would have heard from either one or the other and we still chuckle. We enjoyed many trips together to the Islands in the South and to various cottages in the North. She always had a positive outlook and her spirit was as vibrant as the colourful clothes she wore. We will miss you chere amie, but we will never forget you!
Darlene, Doreen and family: I will always cherish the fond memories of your Mom’s fashion and beautiful smile on Camlachie Sideroad at the farm. Cherish the beautiful memories of your Mom and hold them dear to your heart! “Gone but never forgotten “💕
Diana, you're grandmother truly was a lovely little lady. She was fortunate to have been so well loved by her family. 💕
We extend our condolences to Paula's family for the loss of such a wonderful lady. We had the pleasure of Paula joining our Longworth family and were deeply saddened when she transitioned from our home. We loved Paula's energy, sense of style, her beautiful patio garden and visits from her daughters. We are thinking of you at this time and hope that you are able to reflect on the wonderful memories you had with such an amazing lady. Our thoughts are with you.
My deepest sympathies to all of the family in these difficult time , we will remember aunt Paula with her warm smile and voice ! Francky and Katrine Danis
Paula, We met you and 23 years ago as Darc’s neighbours - we remember the meeting fondly. Maurice gave us the nod of approval and Paula a bubbly bounce and greeting. Your daily walks at Darlene’s were spritely and with purpose. The smell of your amazing soup simmering brings back fond memories. You are loved! I imagine you and Maurice are having amazing lunch dates! Wear that hat - you look fabulous darling! Xoxox Darlene, Doreen, Diana, Daniel and family - May you share wonderful memories as you celebrate Paula’s life. Xoxo
Paula, the fashion icon. She would always greet you with a beautiful smile, a witty comment and some sage advice. Fond memories from the farm in Camlachie during our high school years.
We should all remember your Mom's words "Don't be sad, I've lived a wonderful life". Even though we miss our parents so much and continue to miss them, these words bring much comfort. I didn't meet your Mom but feel, from words and photos from Darlene and now the obituary, that I got to know her a little bit. My deepest sympathies to you all during this difficult time. May you treasure her words and all your happy memories. We have a word in Welsh 'hiraeth' which roughly translated means a longing for a person or place and a feeling of wanting to be with that person. You will feel the hiraeth but be comforted that Paula Maria lived a happy life. With much love.
Always loved Paula’s sense of fashion and the little mischief in her twinkling eye. May she rest in peace! She lived a memorable life and is now in a better place. Much love to Darc and the rest of the family. XXOO
Dear Darlene and family of Paula, My thoughts are with you as you celebrate the wonderful life of Paula. I enjoyed her quit wit and was inspired by her energy ! She lived every moment with zest. I am fortunate to have spent time with such a warm and genuine person. Cyndi
Paula was a beautiful woman inside and out and such an inspiration to all who were so blessed to know her. I will always treasure and be deeply grateful for our special times together. My family and I are keeping you all in our prayers. God bless!
I can't remember a time that Paula didn't have a smile on her face or a kind word to share and of course a snappy outfit on.
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
Always loved Never forgotten Forever missed Els, Erwin, Frans and Lore
~ Erwin Danis