Patricia Fitzgerald Nairne

It is with heavy hearts that we share the loss of our mother, grandmother, great grandmother and wife. A strong woman with love and an adventurous spirit at her core and a strength and belief that saw her through many of life’s trials. She had a kind and generous nature and was devoted and loyal to her many friends.

Our mother grew up in Northumberland UK. After graduating from the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh she continued her vocation of nursing. Following a year at the American Hospital in Paris caring for veterans our mother moved to Canada to continue her nursing career. Her love of travel inspired a career change to that of an airline stewardess with Trans-Canada Airlines.

Our mother met our father Dallas (predeceased) at Edinburgh University. Together they raised four loving and grateful children, Dallas (Teresa), Julia (Robert Roy), Andrew (Agnes Kohr) and Fiona (Bryan Press). Dearly remembered by her grandchildren: Dallas, Tyler, Madison, Duncan, Patrick, Kathryn and step-grandchild Breton Ryan and her family. Our mother was predeceased by her grandson Ian. Our parents’ legacy continues with great grandchildren: Colton, McKinley and Lochlan.

Holding a special place in her heart were our summers in Truro, Cape Cod, annual ski vacations to Vermont, our cottage on Peninsula Lake and her many visits to family and friends in England.

Our mother was not only a great swimmer and walker – she was an enthusiastic skier and talented artist. While never a gardener our home always had flowers with freesia and sweet peas being her favorites. A longtime member of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club we have many happy memories of our family together there.

Along with having an active family and social life our mother also committed her time to volunteering with several charitable organizations with a special connection to the Veteran Wing at Sunnybrook Hospital where she had once been a nursing coordinator.

Our family extends heartfelt thanks to thank Marguerite Ramsay whose kindness, compassion and dedicated care meant so much to our family.

We will always remember that when we faced our own challenges our mother would always tell us the story of “The Little Engine that Could” and its enduring lesson that self-belief, optimism and perseverance make all things possible.

A private family service and interment will take place in November.