Eight Decades on the Water as Paris Marine Celebrates 80 Years as a Family Business

By Scott Arnold

A plaque may have marked the milestone, but it was the crowd gathered around it that told the real story.

the engraving says: This plaque is dedicated to the memory of our founder. JACK PARIS
Founder, 1946. His vision, integrity and dedication laid the foundation for generations to follow. We proudly honour his legacy and the enduring values on which this business was built (photo by scott arnold)

Paris Marine celebrated 80 years in business with a community event that brought together staff, local dignitaries, supporters, and members of the Paris family to honour a legacy that began in 1946 and continues to grow along Lakefield Road.

Inside the dealership, former owner Bill Paris and current owner Deborah unveiled a commemorative plaque recognizing eight decades of family ownership. It will eventually be installed at the front entrance, where it will stand as a permanent reminder of the business’s history and its ties to the region.

For Deborah, who has owned and operated the dealership since 2005 and represents the third generation of the family to lead it, the moment was about reflection as much as celebration.

“We’re very fortunate for everyone to take the time to come and see us during our 80th anniversary,” she said. “It’s a lot, and we’re just really pleased that they could join us.”

Those decades trace back to her grandfather Jack Paris, who founded the business in 1946 before it was later passed to her father, Bill Paris. Today, Paris Marine continues as a full-service marine dealership serving the Kawarthas from its headquarters at 2980 Lakefield Road.

The afternoon also highlighted the role the business has played beyond boating sales and service, something echoed by both municipal and county leaders in attendance.

warden bonnie clark was at paris marine to make a presentation to bill and deborah paris (photo by scott arnold)

Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark described Paris Marine as more than a business, calling it a community builder that helps shape the region’s identity and economy.

She said the dealership reflects what makes the area a destination for outdoor experiences and strong community life, adding that businesses like Paris Marine “help create experiences that draw visitors, support the economy, and reinforce the lifestyle that residents value so deeply.”

Clark also recognized Deborah directly for her leadership and commitment, noting the company’s lasting impact over eight decades and the generations of hard work behind it.

mayor for township of selwyn sherry senis was on hand for the 80th anniversary celebration (photo by scott arnold)

Selwyn Mayor Sherry Senis also offered congratulations, highlighting the family-owned business’s resilience, adaptability, and long-standing role in supporting both local families and the wider regional economy.

“Reaching 80 years is no small achievement,” she said, pointing to the “strong family values and trusted relationships built for both generations.”

Inside Paris Marine, those relationships have always been central. The dealership has grown from its early days selling wooden boats and outboard motors into a modern operation focused on boats, personal watercraft, parts, service, and storage. Through it all, the focus has remained the same.

“We’re so lucky to be in a pleasure business,” Deborah said. “People are happy to come and pick up their boats and to get out on the water. Having that and being able to contribute to their memories on the water, it’s a lot of hard work, but we’re happy to do it.”

She also reflected on how quickly time passes, encouraging people to make space for real moments away from screens.

“We need to find little moments to spend with our families, to make memories,” she said. “And you can’t do that behind a screen. You need to do that out on the water.”

Looking ahead, she said the business is well positioned for continued growth, supported by a strong team and an evolving industry.

“We’re so fortunate to be in such an agile position,” she said. “We can grow, we’re always looking for new opportunities, but we have such a great team that the sky’s the limit.”

Eighty years in, Paris Marine remains exactly what it has always been at its core, a family business built on water, work, and community, with its next chapter already underway.

Marketing Associate at Paris Marine, BRADLY MCCULLUM, made this video to mark the milestone.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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