Pat Westheuser

The eldest of four sisters, Pat grew up during World War II, and her family faced similar struggles to many at that time with rations, blackouts and bombings. Pat remembers going to school with a gas mask and ID discs, the factory workers who boarded in their home and the long walk to their allotment garden.

Pat had a great sense of adventure, always researching the next place to visit. Trained as a registered nurse in England, her lifetime of travel and exploration began when she and a friend boarded the Empress of Britain, destination Montreal, Canada, as part of a one-year government professional work abroad program in 1959.

Pat was positive and fun-loving. She loved a good joke. When recently asked if she was planning another big trip, she replied, “Yes, to the hereafter.”

Pat’s community involvement was outstanding. She served with the Girl Guides of Canada for 55 years, inspiring girls and young women to gain outdoor and other skills to live a full life. She was a leader, district commissioner, camp leader and an active member of the Trefoil Guild. Committed to healthcare for all, she raised funds with the Kelowna General Hospital Women’s Auxiliary volunteering for 21 years. Her love of nature and sharing her learnings with the next generation led to roles, including Chapter President, with the Kelowna Naturalists for 11 years.

Pat is survived by Hugh, her husband of 64 years. They met in Alert Bay on the BC coast. When she told family back in England that she was going to marry a Mountie, her sisters thought that was very romantic. In addition to raising their two girls, Jane and Susan, Pat worked as a nurse and volunteered wherever the family was stationed. In 1986 she was recognized by the RCMP for her work supporting the detachment in Fort Nelson.

Pat loved going to the symphony and theatre, as well as gardening, and watching tennis. Her greatest joy was her family. She had a bright smile, a positive, “just do it” attitude and a great interest in the lives of others. She was known for her sour cherry pie and collection of earrings from her travels.

Pat loved the summer months, sitting under the magnolia tree, in her bathing suit, with a cup of tea and a good book. Her grandchildren Luc, Silvain, Peka and Katja recall lazy summer holidays with Grandma. “Backwards” (dessert first) and “silent” dinners were a favourite. Pat always had a kitchen stocked with cookies, granola bars and Okanagan fruit juice, apple pie, and the fixings for spaghetti and meatballs. She loved hairdressing and makeup sessions and tending the flower and veggie gardens.

Pat, Mum, Grandma taught us to give back, listen to and be interested in those around you and most importantly, be respectful of others.

In memory of Pat, please consider donating to the charity of your choice.