Ottawa Real Estate Leader Paul Rushforth Dies at 52; Community Mourns Beloved Entrepreneur and Broadcaster
OTTAWA, Ontario — Ottawa’s real estate and broadcasting communities are mourning the death of Paul Rushforth, a respected real estate entrepreneur, former professional hockey player, and long-time radio personality.
Rushforth, 52, died on Friday, July 24, after being found deceased at his Ottawa home from what family members described as a self-inflicted injury. He was a father of three and the longtime partner of Petra Sedlakova Blais.
News of his passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends, clients, and community members who remembered him as a generous businessman, a devoted family man, and someone who brought humor and kindness to those around him.
Remembered Voice on Ottawa Radio
For nearly two decades, Rushforth was a familiar voice to Ottawa listeners through his appearances on CFRA’s Open House program, where he spent Saturday mornings alongside co-host Frank Napolitano discussing real estate while entertaining audiences with his humor and personality.
Napolitano shared an emotional tribute following Rushforth’s death, recalling their long friendship and the bond they built both on and off the air.
“Paul and I used to race to see who could get there first so we could brag about buying breakfast,” Napolitano wrote.
Even after the COVID-19 pandemic changed their routines, the two continued arriving early and sharing the same jokes and conversations they had become known for with listeners.
“What people heard on the radio was exactly who we were off the air,” Napolitano wrote, describing them as “two friends who genuinely cared about helping people while having a little fun along the way.”
From Professional Hockey to Real Estate Success
Before becoming one of Ottawa’s most recognizable real estate figures, Rushforth pursued a career in professional hockey.
He grew up playing hockey locally before spending about a decade competing professionally in North America and Europe. During his playing career, he moved with his family to England, where he eventually became captain and assistant coach of the London Knights.
After the collapse of the British Ice Hockey Superleague in 2003 forced the club to close, Rushforth returned to Ottawa and faced the challenge of building a new career while supporting his growing family.
He later described that transition as intimidating, having to establish a new professional path and provide stability after years dedicated to hockey.
Building a Real Estate Legacy
In 2011, Rushforth founded Paul Rushforth Real Estate, a boutique real estate firm that became known throughout Ottawa for its personalized approach and strong community presence.
His company released a statement on July 25 acknowledging the devastating loss and thanking community members for sharing their memories and stories.
“The past 24 hours have been incredibly difficult,” the company said, adding that Rushforth was “an exceptional human being.”
Clients and colleagues remembered him not only for his success in business but also for his willingness to help others and his ability to make personal connections.
Community Pays Tribute
Following news of his death, tributes poured in from across Ottawa, with many remembering Rushforth’s infectious personality, professionalism, and commitment to his community.
Those who knew him described a man who brought energy and compassion into every area of his life — from the hockey rink, to the radio studio, to the real estate office.
As Ottawa continues to grieve, Rushforth’s family, friends, colleagues, and the many people whose lives he touched are remembering a man whose influence extended far beyond his professional achievements.