On August 1, 2026, Paul succumbed to injuries sustained from an accident, at the age of 75. He slipped peacefully behind the veil with all four girls by his side, shortly after being visited by his beloved soul dog, Boomer. He had a large presence, and his absence will be greatly felt by the love of his life, his wife of 44 years, Darla, his daughters Randy (Robert Smith), Katie (Andrew Goldberg), and Keri, and his grandchildren Clara Smith, Quinn Goldberg, Piper Goldberg, and Hudson Goldberg. His pups Boomer and Lucy will keep his spot on the couch warm, and tear around the yard with abandon. He is survived by his brothers Fred Merrimen (the late Pat), Bob Merrimen (Dawn), Gwen Webb (Roger), and his dear nieces, nephews and extended family. He is predeceased by his parents Keith and Ada Merrimen, and his closest brother John.
Paul was a proud Lakeview boy, born in 1951, he was raised on Third street, and never strayed too far from his roots. He watched the surrounding community develop over the years and shared many childhood stories with his children while reminiscing on times gone by. Paul always rooted for the underdog and advocated for the vulnerable; a value passed on to his children.
Paul had many interests, including his unparalleled love of music, something that will forever connect him to his children and wife, and all those closest to him. In the warmer months Paul could be found with Darla, in their garden, tending to the beautiful flowers or vegetables, or listening for a bird, and enjoying a beer with some good tunes. If you stumbled upon him there or in his garage, he would and encourage you to sit down and listen to a new song, then insist you take some of his tomatoes before you left. He was incredibly neighbourly and fostered several close friendships with those on his street, relationships that he cherished.
We are gathering on Thursday August 6, 2026 at the Simple Alternative – Mississauga, located at 1535 South Gateway Road, Mississauga, Ontario, L4W 5J1. Friends and relatives can attend the visitation from 11-12, with a service at 12 pm, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation made to Second Harvest Canada or the Covenant House Toronto.