Ian Bertram Paige
February 1, 1950 – December 24, 2024
Ian Bertram Paige passed away just a few weeks before his 75th birthday, in Almonte, Ontario. Born in Kitchener to Mary Paige (née Nicholson) of Prince Edward Island and Bertram Paige, a decorated WWII airman, Ian moved to Pakenham village with his family in his late teens. After graduating from Queen’s University in Kingston, he made his home in the Ottawa Valley, notably in Pakenham, Rosetta, Perth, and Almonte.
Ian was a potter by trade and sold his inspired vessels all over Canada and abroad. He was known for his dedication to the craft, his mastery of traditional glazing techniques, and his eye for balance, line, and form. As co-owner, he operated Andrew Dickson’s Arts & Crafts Gallery in Pakenham for over 25 years. Engaged in municipal politics, serving as Reeve, and participating in numerous local entrepreneurship and community activism efforts, Ian also contributed through restoration carpentry to the cultural and heritage preservation of the towns he lived by. For many seasons, he could be found at local farmer’s markets selling his wares, trading in artisanal goods, and sampling all the delicious food around.
Ian found peace in the company of birds, trees, and animals, and built two beautiful homes in forested areas. His poetry and writings reflected this deep connection to the natural world.
He is survived by his children Emily Paige (partner to Daniel Gies) and Daniel Paige (partner to Carly Leithead), and his grandchildren Eliah, George, and Frank. Ian shared his children with Alice Puddington (née Johnson). He is also survived by his sisters, Jane Barr (Stewart) and Sandra Paige (Francis Fuca). Ian was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Mary, his brother, Danny Paige, and his sisters, Margie Argue (Ritchie) and Dawn Paige. He is fondly remembered by his brother-in-law, Ritchie Argue, and his nephew and nieces, Paige Wattie, Gillian Argue, Grace Badham, Rodney Barr, Cindy Hartwick, and their spouses and families, as well as his Kitchener cousins, Janice Koehler and Jamie Paige.
Ian is also remembered by Janet Rintoul, who was an important part of his life for over a decade. He maintained abiding friendships with many, including Jeff Mills, who shared his passion for birding, nature, and making the world a better place for all.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the community of Almonte for the kindness shown to Ian in his final months in town. His journals are filled with moments of connection and care, from those offering him rides up the steep hill to dropping homemade muffins off at his door. Ian’s life was intricate and layered, with challenges that he faced in his own way, yet always interwoven with humor, curiosity, and a readiness to listen with an open heart and mind.
A celebration of life will be held on Ian’s 75th birthday, Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 3-6 PM at the Mississippi Mills Public Library, Almonte Branch. As fitting for a potter, a bonfire will follow the event. Space will be held for those compelled to share some words, live music will be played, and refreshments will be served.
In recognition of the exceptional care Ian received from the nurses and doctors there, donations can be made to the Almonte General Hospital-FVM Foundation, or to the Mississippi Mills Community Fund, supporting the values of inclusion and access that Ian held so dear.
Almonte General Hospital – Fairview Manor Foundation: https://almontehospitalfoundation.com/gifts-at-work/special-tributes/
Mississippi Mills Community Fund: https://www.ocf-fco.ca/funds/mississippi-mills-community-fund/
Arrangements Entrusted Into the care of
C.R. Gamble Funeral Home & Chapel Inc.
(127 Church St., Almonte, ON. 613-256-3313)
Condolences & Tributes: www.crgamble.com
