Brenda Paterson

Brenda Evelyn Paterson (nee Sinkinson), passed away peacefully and surrounded by family May 29, 2026. Left to remember her are her children: Les (Christine), Hugh (Sherry), (Kellie), Elaine; grandchildren: Nicole, Amanda (Rachel), Doug (Meghan), Danielle, Michael, Jared; step grandchildren: Vanessa, Matthew (Victoria), John and Jason; great-grandchildren; Kya, Davis, and Claire; nieces and nephews. Brenda was predeceased by her loving husband David (2006) and her beloved son Russ (2012).

Brenda was born the youngest of six kids to pioneer parents, Penn and Evelyn Sinkinson on Sept 15,1931, near Gravelbourg, Sask. She grew up helping care for a menagerie of farm animals and crops and rode horseback to the one-room schoolhouse. At 17 she moved to Vancouver and worked as a stenographer. She married the love of her life, David, in 1951. In 1965 they created a hobby farm, "Dogwood Dene," that was the heart of the children’s upbringing with tree houses, veggie gardens, acres of raspberries, horses, motorcycles, and countless picnics, parties and celebrations with friends and family.

Together, Brenda and Dave also built and ran several small businesses in Victoria. In retirement they moved to Cordova Bay Road, built a new home, planted a vineyard, and raised adorable lambs.

Brenda loved music. She was accomplished at the organ and loved jamming with friends in the Victoria Accordion Club. She loved to dance. To step into her kitchen was to find her whistling happily along to the radio while she cooked and baked.

Games were a lifelong passion — especially duplicate bridge, which she played three times a week. In earlier years she was an enthusiastic lawn bowler. Always active, she will be remembered by her Cordova Bay United Church community.

Brenda loved her travels to the UK, Europe, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New York, Mexico, and countless corners of Canada and Vancouver Island. First with dad, then with family, even at age 94.

Brenda had a rare gift for friendship. Her warmth, genuine interest in others, and nature drew people to her throughout her life. She counted among her circle friends both lifelong and newly made, young and old alike. Above all, she loved her people. Her door was always open with a listening ear and encouragement. Her cookie tin was never empty.

We are blessed to have walked this life with our beloved Mother, Grandma, Gran, Aunt, and friend.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Cordova Bay United Church 813 Claremont Ave, Victoria, BC with a reception to follow