Paul Rushforth, a prominent Realtor, former professional hockey player and longtime host of CFRA’s Open House, has passed at the age of 52. Frank Napolitano, the longtime co-host of CFRA’s Open House, a real estate and mortgage show, said in a post on Facebook that Rushforth passed away on Friday. Napolitano says Rushforth’s passing “shocked all of us.” “Gone far too soon at just 52 years old,” Napolitano said. “He was a mentor to many, a trailblazer in his industry, and an incredible partner, father, teammate, leader, and friend. His impact on our community and the countless lives he touched cannot be overstated.” Rushforth’s real estate career began in 2004, and he was the owner of Paul Rushforth Real Estate. In a statement on Instagram, Paul Rushforth Real Estate described Rushforth as “an exceptional human being.” “He believed that people always came first. He treated everyone with kindness, gave generously without expecting anything in return, and made people feel seen, heard, and valued. Those of us who had the privilege of knowing him are better because of it,” the statement reads. “Our hearts are broken, especially for his children and his family, but we’re also deeply grateful for the outpouring of love we’ve witnessed.” Prior to his real estate career, Rushforth spent ten years playing professional hockey in North America and Europe, and his website describes him as a “hockey player at heart.” Rushforth played for the Ottawa Junior Senators from 1989 to 1991. “His gregarious personality and generosity will be sorely missed. We would like to send our condolences to the Rushforth family,” the Ottawa Junior Senators wrote in a post on X. Napolitano says the Open House will be on hiatus to honour his co-host’s memory but will return next Saturday with a tribute show to celebrate Rushforth’s life. “Rest in peace, my friend,” Napolitano said. “Thank you for being an incredible radio co-host, but more importantly, thank you for being an even better friend.”
