Paul Simon Rushforth Obituary, Cause of Death – Ottawa Real Estate Leader, Former Professional Hockey Player Dies at 52

The Ottawa community is mourning the loss of Paul Simon Rushforth, a respected real estate broker, former professional hockey player, philanthropist, and entrepreneur who passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, at the age of 52. According to his family, Paul spent his final moments at his beloved beach house, a place that brought him immense joy and peace throughout his life.

Born in Prince George, British Columbia, and raised in Nepean, Ontario, Paul Rushforth lived a life defined by determination, generosity, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Whether on the ice, in business, or through his extensive charitable work, he earned the admiration and respect of countless people whose lives he touched.

A gifted athlete, Paul played three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League with the North Bay Centennials and the Belleville Bulls before being selected by the Buffalo Sabres in the sixth round of the 1992 NHL Entry Draft. He went on to enjoy a successful professional hockey career across North America and Europe, forming lifelong friendships and creating lasting memories before transitioning into a new chapter of his life.

After retiring from hockey, Paul found his true calling in real estate. In 2004, he founded Paul Rushforth Real Estate, which grew into one of Ottawa’s most respected real estate brokerages. Throughout his career, he helped more than 7,000 families find homes while mentoring countless REALTORS® and building a team recognized for its integrity, collaboration, and commitment to exceptional service.

Paul also became a familiar voice and face in the Ottawa community through his work as the longtime host of CFRA’s Open House: The Real Estate & Mortgage Show and the Gemini Award-nominated television series All For Nothing. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he remained deeply committed to giving back, supporting organizations such as CHEO, Make-A-Wish, United Way, Canadian Blood Services, The Snowsuit Fund, Do It For Daron, the Ottawa Senators Foundation, and numerous other charitable initiatives.

Those who knew Paul remember him as someone who embraced life wholeheartedly. His infectious laugh, quick wit, and genuine kindness made him someone people naturally gravitated toward. His sister, Samantha Beck, described him as someone who “lit up every room he walked into” and truly was “the salt of the earth.” Friends, colleagues, and loved ones remember him as humble, loyal, compassionate, and endlessly generous, always making others feel valued and appreciated.

Above all else, Paul cherished his family. He is survived by his beloved children, Taylor, Hunter, and Chase Rushforth, of whom he was immensely proud. He is also lovingly remembered by his parents, Colleen and Ronald Rushforth; his sister Samantha Beck, her husband Mark, and their children Mateus, Mica, and Mercer.

Paul also leaves behind his common-law partner, Petra Sedlakova, whom his family described as the love of his life, along with her son, Zakary Blais, whom Paul loved as his own. He is further remembered by the Sedlak and White families, who played an important role throughout his life’s journey.

Paul Rushforth’s legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments in sports and business. It lives on through the thousands of families he helped, the professionals he mentored, the charitable organizations he supported, and the countless friendships he cultivated. His generosity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving others will continue to inspire future generations.

A private Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at the Shenkman Arts Centre from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a tribute program beginning at 5:00 p.m. Family members have requested that attendees wear colorful clothing to celebrate Paul’s vibrant life. A livestream will also be made available so that friends, clients, and supporters unable to attend in person can participate in honoring his memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Paul’s memory to the Canadian Concussion Centre through the UHN Foundation.

Paul Simon Rushforth will be remembered not only for his remarkable achievements but for the compassion, generosity, mentorship, and love that defined his life. His passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and the Ottawa community, but his legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he enriched.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever missed.