I owe my real estate business to Paul Helsby. He encouraged me and trusted that I would be successful when he hired me, although I had zero experience in this profession. I and many other practicing brokers built their businesses from his generous referrals. He was aggressive when he had to be but mostly sought equanimity and good relationships with everyone he encountered, whether in business or his personal life.

Nine months ago he confided in me that he was retiring in July (of 2015). He told me he did not want to renew his license again, and his birthday, July 29 — the license renewal day — was coming up. July 29 was also the day he passed.

He was an amazing person, a man of many parts; there will never be another Paul.

— Beth de Groen