Celebrating the Life of Paul Kontonis
It is with a heavy heart that we share the sudden loss of our dear friend and partner, Paul Kontonis. Paul was a true force in our industry, serving as CMO in residence at both Fabric Media and CommPRO. He brought energy, clarity and heart to every project, every meeting and every conversation. Paul had an incredible ability to connect people, challenge ideas in the best possible way and inspire everyone around him to raise the bar. He made the work better, but more importantly, he made the people around him better.
Since sharing the news of his passing, notes have been pouring in from friends, colleagues and industry leaders who were touched by his brilliance, generosity and kindness. The outpouring speaks to who Paul was. He built community everywhere he went. He lifted others up. He left an impact that will carry on through the many lives and teams he helped shape.
To Paul’s family, friends and colleagues, we send our deepest condolences. His loss is felt across both the Fabric Media and CommPRO communities. Paul leaves behind a legacy of creativity, leadership and heart. We will miss him deeply and honor him always.
Please share your memories, reflections, letters and any photos you have here https://paulkontonis.fromabirdie.com/contribute they will be made into a book for his family and for a website.
As I continue to sit with this loss, there are a few words I want to share directly with Paul.
Dear Paul,
My heart hurts in a way I can’t fully explain. I still can’t believe you’re gone. The world feels really weird today. Everything is off.
I keep hoping to see your Slack status pop up as “available.” I keep wishing for one more hug, one more smile, one more day to go over the CommPRO editorial calendar or laugh together as we wrap up our daily huddle. I miss all the little moments that I now realize were the big ones.
You were more than a partner. You were a dear friend who brought joy, clarity, and humanity to every conversation. You showed up with your whole heart. You made me better. You made all of us better.
You were taken from us far too soon I promise to celebrate who you were every single day. Your brilliance, your humor, your kindness, your spark. I will carry forward your ideas and your love for this work. Your impact will keep moving through everything we create.
And yes, I’m keeping you in my Slack channel. Always. I’ll picture you there, watching and smiling, nudging me to fix one more headline, rethink one more idea, and stop overthinking every proposal. I loved you and I appreciated you, my friend. You were such an inspiration. I hope you’re up there smiling that mischievous smile I know so well.
Thank you, Paul. For the friendship. For the trust. For the laughter. For the moments that meant more than I realized at the time. I wish I had one more hug, but I will carry you with me always.
And I will make you proud.
With all my love,
Fay
P.S. - I’ve asked industry friends to celebrate you. Geez man, you are going to be missed!
Dear Paul,
Your bright smile and welcoming energy warmed every room you entered. You were one of those rare people whom others meet and immediately know they have found a friend. That was always who you were.
I often think about our very last conversation. It was full of love, just like all of our conversations, but this one stays with me. We were in Cannes, where you were hosting the CommPRO Communications Town Hall. In true Paul style, you remained calm and collected, even in the midst of hosting a major event, filming interviews, and supporting the kids involved in the Explain It To a Teenager project. You greeted me with your usual warmth. I noticed that you had a beautiful tan, even more olive than usual, just glowing and smiling. Most people were complaining about the oppressive heat, but you reflected the light of the South of France sun. With a big hug, you said, "Make yourself at home. Get some food. I'm so glad to see you, Carmella. Let's talk about how we're going to change the world."
We often discussed the projects we would one day undertake together and our shared conviction in the power of community. Paul, I want you to know that the mission goes on. We are still going to change the world.
Thank you for reminding me, even in this moment, how important it is to seize today. Your spirit is still with us, and I carry your encouragement forward.
Love,
Carmella
Carmella Glover (she/ella)
President & CEO Diversity Action Alliance
Dear Paul,
I am in shock. You were so vibrant! Damn this hurts!
Over this period of time we have known and worked with one another, I have very much enjoyed the experience. You brought great energy, thoughtfulness and creativity to the table. You, Fay, Jason and I were so in sync with the plans we were making together.
Your attendance and participation at my summit in October was confirmation that our planned partnership was the right move. It was further confirmed from the feedback I received from my colleagues. You have been taken from me and all of us way too early. I am deeply, deeply sorry for the loss to your family, friends and especially Fay. I’m confident your legacy will be honored because your spirit will be with us as we navigate this next chapter.
I never had the opportunity to meet your wife and children but I know that they have to be really special people having experienced the love you gave. My heart is broken for them. May the fond memories provide them strength during this difficult period.
Love Ya!
Paul Duning
CEO/Publisher
Capitol Communicator
Dear Paul,
I'm incredibly saddened and still in a state of shock over the news that we lost you. You were far too young, and your passing is a massive loss for our corner of the video industry.
You were unforgettable for all the right reasons. When I needed that next-level insight, you were the one I would call. You always had your finger on the pulse and were totally "in the know." You gave the best professional "big hugs" and were, simply put, a great colleague.
These things are never easy, and the timing during the holidays makes it even tougher to process.
What a legacy you leave behind. My thoughts are with your family and loved ones, and of course, Fay, during this painful time.
Rest in peace, Paul. You will be missed.
Sabrina George
CMO
Xcyte Digital
Dear Paul,
You were always one of my favorites. Always smiling. Always sharing your varied interests, from soccer to olive oil. Always amazing me with your brilliance in your varied marketing roles. Always exploring who we could introduce each other to, and I have that privilege of having introduced you to Fay.
You were one of the good ones, and you shone so much light wherever you went. Thanks for all you did with your time here, even if it was just you being so unabashedly yourself.
David Berkowitz
Dear Paul:
I’m glad my last notes to you were of thanks. There was much to be thankful for. Your energy and enthusiasm. Your directness and vision. Your edits and suggestions. Your ability to motivate others, build partnerships, and make a difference.
There’s much I did not know about your accomplishments, contributions, and passion for football, but in the limited time our paths crossed it was clear that you were a bright and shining light.
You had that superstar magic that is rare to come across. You will be sorely missed.
Thank you for all you did.
Simon Erskine Locke
