PAT MACDONALD

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PAT MACDONALD Pat passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospice on Monday, February 17, 2014. Loving wife to Gus, devoted mother to Grant (Nancy) and Christie (Phil St. John), beloved grandmother of Cole, Kate, Elizabeth and Catherine; she will be missed. She was predeceased by her brother, Hugh Brown of Kelowna. Pat was born in Victoria, and as a young woman she worked for Royal Trust, and was married in 1959. Gus's career called on them to move to Montreal and then to Winnipeg. In spite of Winnipeg's weather, Pat thrived. She met many dear friends there, friendships which are thriving to this day, and will survive her. As her children reached their teen years, she returned to work as a receptionist at the Grace Hospital, which she called "my little job". Her little job gave her great satisfaction, and was again the source of long-lasting friendships. One of her greatest joys was her children. She was extremely proud of them and their accomplishments. Upon their retirement, Gus and Pat returned to Victoria. From then on she was very busy providing care, love and support to her grandchildren. A celebration of Pat and Gus's 50th wedding anniversary in Parksville in 2009 was a highlight for all, a chance for her family to say "thank you" for everything she did for them over the years. Always an active person, Pat enjoyed curling, at the Victoria CC and then the Assiniboine CC in Winnipeg. She was an avid bridge player, and was always ready to help out a friend in need. Pat was an elegant woman who carried herself with a quiet strength. That strength was never more evident than in her last months, where her concern for those around her was greater than her concern for herself. She was a people person, and was surrounded by many dear friends throughout her life. The outpouring of support she received in her last months was proof that you reap what you sow. According to her wishes, a private family memorial will take place. The family would like to thank all the staff and volunteers at Hospice for their compassionate care of Pat in her final days. Flowers gratefully declined, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Pat's memory to Victoria Hospice Foundation; 4th Floor, Richmond Pavilion; 1952 Bay Street, Victoria, BC V8R 1J8.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 19, 2014