In Memory of

Charles

Kasey

Paragg

Obituary for Charles Kasey Paragg

CHARLES KASEY PARAGG
April 28, 1945 – December 13, 2022

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Charles Paragg, on December 13, 2022, at the age of 77.

Charles will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 48 years, Deanne; children, Melanie and Michelle (Chris); grandchildren, Christopher Charles and Stella Anne; and grand-puppy, Max. He will also be fondly remembered by many relatives, godchildren, friends, colleagues, and students.

Charles was born in Siparia, Trinidad and Tobago, on April 28, 1945. Growing up in Lambeau, Tobago, some of his favorite childhood memories were days spent on the cricket pitch and soccer field. As a young man, Charles began his university career as a student in the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of the West Indies. After some time, he moved to Winnipeg, to be with Deanne and they married in 1974. He continued his studies in History and Political Science in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Manitoba, obtaining his Bachelor of Arts.

Shortly after graduation, Charles began his career at the University of Manitoba. During this time, his children were born and their adventures as a family of four began.

While working at the University of Manitoba, Charles found his calling as Registrar of the Faculty of Medicine and spent 22 years advising and helping shape the future of the medical school; however, his passion was guiding and supporting students in everything from financial support and career choices, to personal matters. He often commented that working with students was the best part of his job. His dedication and commitment were recognized when he was named by the medical students as Honorary Senior Stick. Charles was the first non-teaching member of the Faculty of Medicine to receive this honour in the 117-year history of the medical school, and that became his legacy.

After 28 years at the U of M, Charles retired from the medical school; but his retirement was short lived. He had been recruited by Cornell University of New York to assist them with the management of a brand-new satellite medical school being developed in Qatar. Charles took on the role of Director of Student Affairs with Weill Cornell Medical College in Doha, Qatar with the same integrity, kindness, compassion, and remarkable work ethic he exemplified as Registrar. When he was not working, he enjoyed being referee for his students’ football and cricket matches, as well as, travelling, and learning the history of many wonderous places around the world.

When he officially retired, he returned to Winnipeg to be close to his family. In recent years, he was most content relaxing outside with a cup of coffee. He loved to read, share laughs with friends and family, listen to his favorite music, cook his famous dishes, watch the news and sports, and enjoyed discussing politics and the state of the world. Above all else, he was devoted to his family. He loved going for drives with Deanne and Max, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He gave his time, care, support, patience, and smile, generously and selflessly to all. He will be remembered as an intelligent, humble, genuine, and true gentleman. We love you and will miss you and your witty smirk.
A private memorial service will be held; A celebration of life will take place at a later date for all who wish to attend.
We would like to express our gratitude for the care and compassion of the first responders, the staff at the Grace Hospital, and the friends who came to support us. We are forever grateful.

If family and friends wish to do so, donations can be made to the Charles Paragg Memorial Fund - a bursary which has been established to help medical students in need - http://give.umanitoba.ca/CharlesParaggMemorialFund or a charity of your choosing.

Expression of condolences can be shared at www.neilbardalfuneralhome.com