Shaw Media President Paul Robertson Passes Away at 59

TORONTO: Paul Robertson, the executive VP of Shaw Communications and president of Shaw Media, passed away earlier this week following a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Robertson was a 30-year veteran of the TV industry. He took up his role at Shaw Media in 2010. Robertson passed away on Tuesday at the age of 59.

Shaw issued the following statement: "Shaw is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Paul Robertson…after his courageous battle with cancer. Paul's passionate contribution to the Canadian media industry, his warm, personal leadership style and infectious sense of humor made him truly one of a kind. He will be missed at Shaw as both an inspiring leader and a long-time member of our family. Our deepest condolences to his wife Carole and his daughter Danielle."

Corus Entertainment offered its condolences to Paul's family, friends and colleagues: "Many of us have had the great fortune of having known and worked with Paul over the years. He was an inspirational leader and a warm and caring person. Paul made a significant contribution to the Canadian television industry. His personal leadership style has left an indelible mark on those who knew him. Paul embraced life and his work with passion, humor and optimism. He will be greatly missed."

Bell Media also released a statement with condolences: "Paul was an inspiring leader and a dedicated champion of our industry," said Kevin Crull, the president of Bell Media. "He was not only a competitor but a friend, quickly becoming a role model to me when I entered the unfamiliar territory of the media industry. As we discussed the challenges of the industry, he was always insightful, wise, and rational. His optimism and can-do spirit never faltered. Paul was an inspiration to me and the many others whom he touched and influenced, and will be missed."