In Memoriam: Paul Tackaberry

IPIC wishes to extend our sincere condolences following the passing of Paul Tackaberry, a long-time member of the institute for over 34 years and a dedicated IP professional.

Paul was described by long-time friend and colleague Charles Boulakia as “one of a kind, a truly unique soul, a keen wit, and a good friend. I, and the rest of his colleagues at Ridout & Maybee, are devastated by the loss.” The following tribute was provided by his firm where he was a member of the Ridout & Maybee LLP family since 2003.

Paul has been a well-respected and well-loved member of the Ridout & Maybee family since 2003. We are devastated by the loss. Professionally, Paul was a powerhouse of reasoning and intellect, with an encyclopedic knowledge of trademark and copyright law. His ability to draft succinct, straightforward argument and analysis getting to the heart of matters was second to none. He advised clients with sagacity and wisdom. He also made significant contributions to the law in Canada. He repeatedly shaped the scope of protection for famous trademarks in Canada, first before the Supreme Court of Canada in Jaguar and later at the Trademark Opposition Board in Bell Canada v.Bellroy; created new law on trademark remedies in Mondo Foods v. TorreMondo at the Federal Court; and clarified the treatment of families of related trademarks at the Federal Court of Appeal in Benjamin Moore v. Home Hardware.

But Paul’s professional accomplishments did not define him. He was kind, humble, generous of time and spirit, calm, cool, and collected. We will remember him for his quirkiness, his sense of humour, his organized hiking tours at INTA, his saxophone concerts at our offices and on his porch at home, his care and dedication for his clients and colleagues, his ability to make strong and meaningful relationships at home and abroad, and of course his glowing passion and pride for his loving wife and daughter. Our thoughts and prayers are with his widow, Sarah, and daughter, Leah. Words of kindness and condolence sent to ptackaberry@ridoutmaybee.com will be shared with his family. A link to his obituary can be found here.