Former Chief of the Defence Staff
Order of Canada
On Saturday, July 1, 2023, at the age of 88 years in the presence of his loving family. Survived by his beloved wife and dear companion of 66 years, Margaret (née Nickel). Dear father of Bob (Joanne), Cathy (LCol David Wiley), Peter (Pamela), Karen (Andrew Hanlon), and grandfather of Christopher, Matthew (Samantha), Ross, Emily (Todd), and Willow. Also remembered by brother Tony (Ann, deceased), of Toronto, and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents Robert and Mary Manson of Deep River, ON, and sisters Marie and Claire.
Born in Trail, BC and raised in Montreal and Deep River, Paul attended Royal Roads Military College in Victoria and Royal Military College of Canada in Kingston, graduating in 1956 with the Sword of Honour. He received BSc degrees in electrical engineering from Queen’s University and RMC, and honorary doctorates from both Royal Roads and RMC. His life of exemplary leadership began with 38 years of military service as a pilot in NATO Europe and Canada, and saw him rise to positions of increasing responsibility, including Base Commander at CFB Chatham, NB, Commander of the Canadian Air Group in Germany, and Program Manager of the New Fighter Aircraft Program, leading to the selection of the CF-18 Hornet in the late 1970s. He commanded the Air Force from 1983 to 1985 and was Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff from 1986 to 1989.
Following military service, he became president of a large aerospace company, retiring in 1997. He will be remembered for his significant contribution to the creation of the new Canadian War Museum as volunteer chairman of the Passing the Torch Campaign, and as Chair of the Building Committee. He was Chair of the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada and of Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame, and President of the Conference of Defence Associations Institute. He also served for five years as a trustee of the Canadian Museum of Civilization. Among his many honours were the C.D. Howe Award (1992), the Vimy Award (2003), the Order of Military Merit, the RMC Wall of Honour (2009), and induction into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame (2018). In 2002, he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada. He was a frequent commentator on radio and TV on defence and security issues, and wrote numerous articles on related subjects. A truly modern renaissance man, Paul Manson actively pursued lifelong interests in astronomy, archaeology, history, and genealogy. In spite of an extremely busy professional life, his loving dedication to his family never diminished, and he always found time for friends and his beloved pursuit of golf and music. He was a longtime member of the Royal Ottawa Golf Club. A skilled trombonist, he played in several bands well into his later years.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, ON) from 5-7pm. A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 14 at 1 pm, followed by the interment in the National Military Cemetery. Live-streaming of the service will be available from Beechwood.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Canadian War Museum or a charity of your choice.
*There are several road closures within the City of Ottawa's downtown core from July 6 to 27th. Please consider planning your route accordingly*
Digital Guestbook
Laura Brandon
Mark O'Neill
I had the good fortune to serve as Corporate Secretary to the Board of Trustees that built the Canadian War Museum. General Manson played a key leadership role in the creation of the museum, one of the most successful cultural institutions in Canada. It was a distinct privilege to work with him, one of the most accomplished and dignified Canadians I have known. Paul will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on.
Claudette D. Roy, C.M.
My deepest sympathy to Margaret and family. It was a great privilege to know and work with Paul as a member of the Board of Trustees of The Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation. His competence and wise counsel, particularly with respect to the building of the Canadian War Museum, were greatly appreciated. Qu'il repose en paix.
Gordon and Irene Diamond
We send our deepest sympathies to Marg and the Manson family. Our first memories os Gen. Paul Manson occurred when he was Commander Air Command in Winnipeg. He was highly regarded as an exceptional leader, mentor and influenced many lives. We count ourselves as fortunate to have known him. He will always be remembered for his devotion to his family, the Air Force and country.
Barry and Mary Bowen
Our sincere condolences to Margaret and the entire Manson family. It was an honour to have known and to have served with General Manson. He was a true leader in every sense and among the very best to have served Canada with distinction and grace at all levels. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace.
David Connell (Maj Ret)
Gen Manson presented me with the RCAF Association award at my RMC Grad. As he shook my hand he said to me, "I too won this award when I graduated, may your career be as fulfilling as mine has been." He personified the best example to strive for in my career both in service and as a defence civilian. It was my distinct pleasure to have met him several times and especially, to host him as PMC as our guest of honour at the ASC 50th Anniversary Mess Dinner.
Cpl (retired) L. Wooldridge
As an MSE OP , I often drove Gen Manson in Ottawa. Gen Manson was kind, pleasant person who respected all service members . It was an honour to serve with you and for you. RIP
General (ret) Jean Boyle and Sharon
A great mentor, officer and friend.
An inspirational leader within the military community and in civilian life.
Sally O’Rourke
My deepest sympathy ? ? ?
Bonnie & Don Williams MGEN (Ret'd)
Dear Marg and Family to whom we send our heartfelt condolences on Paul’s passing. Our deepest sympathies are with you during this time of loss. Bonnie and I held Paul with deep respect and affection.
A decade of pilots benefited from his inspirational leadership and motivational goals setting a high standard for those who were to follow him.
Marg, you and Paul were a team epitomizing working together mastering the fine art of good communication. Your commitment to volunteer work improved the quality of life within the many communities in which you lived.
We will remember Paul with many fond memories.
Bonnie and Don Williams MGEN (Ret’d)
I was very sorry to learn of Paul’s passing. My condolences to his family. I worked with him on the Passing the Torch campaign to raise funds for the new war museum. His kindness and thoughtfulness left an indelible impression on me. He was a true leader.