Reproduced with permission from The Beacon Supplement

Dr. James Paton

Dr. James Paton was born and educated in Ireland.  He later studied in Edinburgh graduating with a degree in medicine.  He came to Newfoundland in 1937 as Medical Officer with the Department of Health.

Dr. Paton served on the south coast until 1946 when he came to Gander to accept the position of officer in charge of the Sir Frederick Banting Memorial Hospital, a position he held until his death in February, 1962 at the age of 52.

During his 16 years at Gander, Dr. Paton won the love and respect of young and old alike, and memories of him will continue to linger in the minds of those who knew him.  He was a humble man, patient and kind at all times.  He made his patients comfortable and relaxed once they entered his surgery.  He was ever ready to cater to the needs of others whether they be patient, staff, stranger or friend.

Dr. Paton took great pride in the community, often donating equipment and uniforms to local hockey teams.  He also donated the set of electronic bells in the Fraser Road United Church in memory of his late father, Rev. J.G. Paton.  Gander honoured this great man by naming the new hospital, opened in 1964, after him.

Researched by Carol Walsh