The family invites you to watch the Celebration of Paul's Life. Please click here


Paul Douglas Nelham
May 25, 1954 – October 9, 2025

Paul is survived by his loving wife Diane Curtis; stepdaughters Dana Curtis (Will Johnson) and her children Atlantis and Everest Smith, and Alissa Reid (Stephen) and their children Luke and Liam; daughter Jennifer; son Darrell (Chantelle) and their children Micah and Shiloh; brother Mark (Kathy) Nelham, and their children David, Julia, Amy, and brother Steve (Kim). He was predeceased by his sister Janice Katool.

Born in Toronto, Paul was the eldest child of Dorothy and Roy Nelham. He spent his early years in Parry Sound on a small farm before moving to Toronto for high school, where he excelled in football, basketball, drama, and skiing. He attended Providence Bible College in St. Pierre, MB, earning his bachelor's in theology while supporting his family in construction. Though he held many jobs, Paul's true passion was teaching—whether canoeing, skiing, dancing, or serving as a Home School liaison at Crocus Plains High School.

His love of canoeing inspired his work with Wild Wise, helping people of all abilities explore the wilderness and even designing adaptive equipment for them. Paul and the Nelham family spent many joyful trips running rapids, portaging, and camping. His enthusiasm for skiing led him to Assessippi Ski Hill near Russell, MB, where he taught lessons and maintained equipment. His love of dance brought him to teach at Gypsy Jive Dance Studio and the Brandon School of Dance, sharing music, rhythm, and joy with many. A talented musician, he also played trumpet and guitar.

Paul and Diane met on a blind date arranged by mutual dance students—love at first dance. Their marriage was filled with laughter, travel, and years of teaching others to dance, often choreographing first dances for wedding couples.

At Crocus Plains High School, Paul found deep purpose. He encouraged countless students to stay in school and find success, earning admiration that endured long after graduation. Former students often greeted him warmly in public, recalling how his "walk and talk" approach changed their lives.

Paul was always ready to lend a hand—fixing, teaching, hugging, or simply being there. He loved sharing time and hobbies with his daughter Jennifer, and some of his happiest moments were spent at the family cabin in Killarney, creating cherished memories.

A Celebration of Paul's Life was held at Memories Chapel on Friday, October 17, 2025. Donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba – Westman Region or the Brandon Humane Society.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Brandon Emergency and ICU for their exceptional care, to Rev. Milo Spooner-Craig, Rev. Doug Craig, and Mary Chambers for their thoughtful service, and to Lawana and the staff at Memories Chapel for their compassion.