GERALD PATTERSON

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GERALD PATTERSON Gerald William Patterson, aged 86, dearly beloved husband of the late Mary Patterson, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 30, 2009 at Concordia Place Care Center, Winnipeg, Manitoba. Gerry was born November 18, 1922 in Rainy River, Ontario, the only child of William and Laura Patterson (nee Blackmoore) where he completed his early years of schooling. Active in a variety of sports, but in particular hockey, he later attended the University of North Dakota on a full scholarship, goal tending for the University team. Hockey remained a major interest and part of Gerry's life, and though he had the ability to have turned professional, he decided to pursue his education and completed a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering. Living in Winnipeg, he met Mary Kulicki, originally of Grand Prairie Alberta, and they were married on December 11, 1952. In 1957 Gerry commenced his career with the Department of Highways in Winnipeg and was later transferred to Arborg, Manitoba, where he served as District Engineer until his retirement in 1983. Gerry continued with his interest in hockey and played on old-timers leagues, coached and refereed hockey. Gerry was predeceased by his wife, Mary, of 39 years, on May 8, 1992. In 1994 Gerry moved to Portage la Prairie to be closer to his son, Tom and his family and later moved to Lorette. In later years as his health failed, Gerry was lovingly cared for by the dedicated staff at the Thorvaldson Care Center and Concordia Place Care Center in Winnipeg. Gerald is survived by son Thomas (Dale) and grandchildren Curtis and Jillian, of Lorette, Manitoba; daughter Beverly and (Grant) and granddaughters Kerry and Kassidy of Tyndall, Manitoba. In keeping with his wishes, Gerry will be cremated. There will be a private family ceremony and a joint interment on Saturday, November 7, 2009 at the Arborg Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, if family and friends so desire, donations in Gerry's memory may be made to his favourite charities of the War Amps or the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA Ltd., 183 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto, ON M4V 1P1). Arborg (MacKenzie) Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 04, 2009