Obituary of Paul Abate

Paul Peter Abate Owner, Novelty Shoe Rebuilders After a long and full life, Paul passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, on Thursday, October 18th, 2012, in his 91st year. Dearly beloved husband and soul mate for 68 years, of the late Margaret (nee Todich). Loving father to Paul (Linda), the late Peter (Marilyn), Philip (Evelyn) and Maryann (Bob). Cherished grandfather of Debbie (Sam), Glen, Peter (Christine), Mark, Jeannine (Greg), Sharlene (Sean), Philena (Ryan), Rachelle, Michelle (Brian) and Stephanie. Dearest great-grandfather of Valerie, Bryan, Dusty, Griffin, MacGregor, Ava, Isabella, Lucas, Alyssa and Miya. Predeceased by his parents Salvatore and Antonina Abate, siblings Katherine, Pauline, Salvatore and Francis. Paul was born on May 22, 1922 above his parents' fruit store at 425½ Yonge Street. At the age of 14, he started working as a delivery boy for Novelty Shoe Rebuilders and spent a lifetime working there. He eventually bought the business with his partner and went on to own his piece of Yonge Street. He loved to recount stories of the work he had done for notable people and theatre productions. Paul made everyone who walked through the door feel special. He only retired from going to the shop when Margaret's health declined. At the age of 87, he learned to use a computer and spent many hours singing along to his favourite artists on YouTube. The family will receive friends at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME A.W. MILES CHAPEL LIMITED, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville Avenue) from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 22 and from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service in the chapel at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 23, followed by a reception. Interment Mount Hope Cemetery. If desired, donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada or the Canadian Cancer Society. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.