Patricia Ann Duggan (née Strutt)

If you’re looking for Patsy Duggan, start by climbing the stairs to the ninth floor of her West Vancouver apartment—just as she did daily, a personal ritual of exercise and reflection. Step into her small but vibrant condo, where a queen bed, angled toward the sweeping view of the ocean, offered a perfect perch for daydreaming. Settle onto the couch next to a couple of stuffed bunnies, surrounded by an eclectic collection of framed mirrors, art and keepsakes from her travels to Mexico, Europe, Egypt, India, and beyond.

Patsy may no longer live there, but it’s easy to imagine she’s just stepped out for a moment. That apartment was both her sanctuary and her launchpad. It was where she settled after raising a family on her own, and where she joyfully mapped out her next adventure—sometimes with a laptop balanced on a pillow. As a longtime expert guide for B.C.’s tourism industry, she was known for crafting imaginative experiences for visitors. But she was also on her own journey, one of introspection and curiosity—about the world, about others, and about herself. She never considered that journey finished.

Guests lucky enough to have been invited over for appetizers or dinner would find themselves wrapped in warmth. If you were a close friend, a beloved family member, or simply a weary soul with a kind heart, you might have even been handed the keys to stay a few nights.

Despite her slight build and modest nature, Patsy could fill a room with her presence. People gravitated toward her light. She could have told stories of resilience—from raising her children to building a fulfilling career. She celebrated the achievements of others and shied away from the spotlight herself.

Earlier this year, a sudden cancer diagnosis led Patsy to embrace her private side. She focused on what mattered most: time with her family and her two greatest joys, her son Patrick and daughter Kristine. They stayed by her side through every hospital stay, ensuring she was comfortable and surrounded by love. Eventually, they helped her transition her cherished furniture and art into a peaceful room overlooking the garden at North Shore Hospice.

It was at North Shore Hospice in a tranquil room overlooking the garden in the company of her two children and big sister Joanne (Jo-jo) on the achingly bright morning of May 9th that Patsy took her leave.

As ever, she had places to be.

Her wide circle of loved ones—including grandchildren Sarah, Emma, Ethan, Koen, and Jakob; daughter-in-law Chris; son-in-law Jon; nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends—will continue to look for glimpses of her spirit in cheerful corners. No doubt, she’s found another room with a spectacular view.

A celebration of life for Patsy will be held Thursday, June 19, at 2 p.m. at Boal Chapel in North Vancouver. The link for live streaming is: https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/111794

In lieu of flowers, donations to North Shore Hospice in Patsy’s name are gratefully welcomed.