Tribute

Patricia finally gained her wings, if indeed that is how she is getting to the next step in this somewhat difficult journey she has been travelling.  The conclusion for Patricia’s life was a quiet and peaceful undertaking in the early hours of November 7, 2015 – passing over from one sweet early dawn morning hour to the next, simply and in her sleep.   Caring staff at Mariposa Care facility in Osoyoos BC have nurtured and supported Patricia for the past 7 years, tenderly ensuring her comfort and care in a challenging time.  There was no question that Patricia knew and cared for the special staff who safeguarded her with humour and kindness.  Thank you to all of you.  A sincere thank you is also made to Dr. Lorraine Kane for her professional and compassionate care and attention over these several years.  Dementia did not go gently for Patricia and leaving this part of her life behind is a good thing. 

Patricia was born in Toronto to Eileen and Arthur Featherstonhaugh.  She had a  sister, Moira 13 years older.   She lived in London England for much of her youth, right through WWII.  Working at the RCAF club in London she met and then married Dennis Young, a RCAF pilot from Victoria, BC.  She had son Michael in England and then two years later she travelled as a war bride to Victoria, BC. where she lived the majority of her life.  Twins Jennifer and Moira were then born although Moira died 4 days later.  Four more years and Hilary was born.   

One of her greatest loves were her animals that she had throughout her life especially her dogs.  In the later years of dementia, it was clearly the animals that continued to be her preferred company and mainstay and were her source of love and joy. She unfortunately was thwarted in many dreams for herself, in part due to her own decisions but also due to the social norms of the time.  Desperately dreaming of owning a book store, she lived her life through books.  Articulate, acerbic wit, keenly intelligent, belligerent, playful, strong – and loving.  She was a later in life champion for herself and others through AA.  The ‘It Works’ group in Victoria were her foundation and the source of dear friendships lasting the rest of her life.  The good years of her life were when she successfully worked in a small independent bookstore in Victoria – single, independent and sober.    She had her dog, her job, her good companion Grant and life was finally solid. 

Patricia leaves Hilary (John) Robertson, Michael (Mary O’Donovan) Young, Jennifer Geddes, grandchildren Savanna Blue, Katya, Christopher, James, Ketha, Nissa, Britta and Michael and at least 13 great grandchildren. 

I am pretty sure if there is a heaven that the dogs above will be leaping, romping, cuddling and snuggling with mum and that her dark night of the soul is over.  May she travel lightly, with joy, abundance and love. 

“This very moment is the perfect teacher, and, lucky for us, it’s with us wherever we are”.  Pema Choden.

By mum’s request there will be no funeral services.  Cremation services have been entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium of Oliver B.C.