Local Bracebridge philanthropist Paul Hammond died on May 24 at the age of 79.
Officials with the South Muskoka Hospital Foundation said Hammond first served on their board in 2005 and later served on the Foundation’s Donor Relations Committee.
Beyond his hospital work, the foundation said he founded and owned Muskoka Transport, served nearly two decades as a volunteer firefighter, sat on the Ontario Judicial Council, and chaired the Ontario Trucking Association.
In 2023, Hammond received the Citizen of the Year Award from the Rotary Club of Bracebridge, and the 2024 Award of Merit from the Town of Bracebridge.
“Paul believed strongly in giving back to the community that he loved. His support for local causes, and especially his efforts with the South Muskoka Hospital Foundation, reflected his deep commitment to improving the lives of others,” said Bracebridge Mayor Rick Maloney in a social media post. “He led not for recognition, but because he cared deeply about Bracebridge.”
Maloney said Hammond will be remembered for his kindness, his community spirit and the relationships he built throughout Bracebridge, Muskoka and beyond.
“He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, philanthropy and compassion that will not be forgotten,” said Maloney.
In a statement online, Muskoka-Parry Sound MPP Graydon Smith said he had a “firsthand” opportunity to see the difference Hammond made.
Smith said he will be remembered with great respect and appreciation by many including him.
“His legacy will forever be found in the organizations he helped, the causes he championed and the relationships he built along the way,” said Smith.
He leaves behind his wife, Shirley, to whom he was married for more than 60 years. Together, they had two children, two grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
