A local historian who wrote about the Villages of Etobicoke has lost this battle with the dreaded COVID-19 virus.

Paul Joseph O’Connor passed away on April 25. He was 66.

He was married to Maija Asaris for 34-years and will also be greatly missed by his mother, Mary, siblings Susan, Kevin (Lisa) and nieces and nephews.

Friends remember him as a friendly and caring person.

“Paul loved his Irish heritage, a spirited Irish get together, travel and family history,” according to his family. “Throughout his life, Paul shared a passion for history.”

He gladly supported Heritage Toronto, the Etobicoke Historical Society, Alderwood Historical Society and once contributed a chapter to the Villages of Etobicoke.

His family are expressing their thanks to the staff of Trillium Hospital who cared for Paul in his fight with the virus.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations can be made in Paul’s memory to St. Ambrose Catholic Church or the Trillium Health Partners Foundation.