Patricia Dawn Dunick

It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Patricia, who passed away peacefully on April 28 2023 surrounded by her family after a short stay in the Coronary Care Unit at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria.

Patricia was born in London, England on February 23, 1937, the year of the coronation of King George VI. She was the daughter of the late Esther and John Hughes. Patricia is survived by her husband John Dunick; sisters Jackie (David), Gillian (Jess) and Geraldine; children Robin (David) and Jon (Cathy); stepsons Leith (Cathy), Gordon (Ashley) and grandchildren Chris, Drake, Rhian, Nolan and her many nieces, nephews and godchildren around the globe.

During WWII, when Pat was a small child, she had an extended stay in a hospital isolation ward due to diphtheria, which resulted in her family moving from East London to Romford, Essex during the Blitz.

After marrying in 1958, she emigrated to Toronto, Canada with her first husband Raymond Harris. Her best memories of her early days working in Toronto included her stint with Ray Sonin and his very popular Calling All Britons radio program. Shortly after the birth of Robin, the family moved to Ottawa, Ontario where Jonathan was born and more life-long friendships were established. In 1967, the family settled in the suburb of Kanata. While Kanata remained home base through the 70’s, overseas postings in Barbados and Antigua gave her the chance to entertain the friends she had collected along the way.

While in Barbados, Pat met her second husband John. She joined him for his Naval posting in Dorset, England, before returning to Canada (Ottawa) in the mid 80’s. She was very energetic and active right up until her passing. Pat and John traveled extensively to such places as Australia, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the U.K. Pat thoroughly enjoyed her retirement years in Victoria with John. She loved to look at the beautiful view of Gorge Vale from the deck with a gin and tonic in hand.

She took great interest in all of the activities of her grandchildren and became quite adept at being in touch via her Mac, iPad and social media even learning how to stream lacrosse games! Pat will always be remembered by her family and friends for her enduring passions – cooking, gardening and entertaining. She lit up a room and made it sparkle!

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory to Royal Jubilee Hospital or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.