Patrick Rudolph (Pat) Bartel

It is with profound sadness that the family of Pat Bartel announce his peaceful passing in the early morning hours of January 9, 2015. Pat suffered over the past several years from a degenerative neurological disorder that robbed him of his colourful personality.

Pat was born in Fort Frances on February 27, 1941 to Gus and Mary Bartel. He was the youngest of eight children and is survived by his sisters Lorraine (Ray) Sloane and Fern (Sterling) Douglas. Pat and Fern shared a special sibling bond; memories of Pat and Fern’s times together will be treasured forever. Fern and Sterling’s family also held a special place in Pat’s heart; they were his special nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sister in law and brother in law Nancy and Fred Gate and their family; as well as sister in law Betty Dobransky and her family.

In 1963, Pat married the love of his life, an 18 year old red headed beauty with whom he shared 51 wonderful years. As a couple they set the most extraordinary example of love and commitment through good times and bad and in sickness and in health. They were blessed with 2 daughters Stacy Pollard and Tricia (Rob) Grierson. Pat spent his every living moment caring about his daughters and working hard to ensure that they never wanted for anything.

Pat’s life took on a whole new meaning when he became a much loved grandpa to his 4 grandkids, Sabrina (Donavan) Broesky, and Evan, Allison and Danica Grierson. He was fortunate to share some memorable moments with great grandson Kolton Broesky. Pat’s love for his grandkids brought him to many of their events and activities. They will remember fondly their time with him at the lake fishing, swimming and playing cards. He was a larger than life hero to them all.

Pat was the hardest working man you will ever know. He started his working life as a produce manager at The Food Basket and Safeway. He began his career as a Millright at the Fort Frances Paper Mill in 1966 until his retirement at age 55. Pat made many lifelong friendships during his time at the Mill. During his time at The Food Basket Pat established a lifelong friendship with Jack and Pat Mccuaig. Together they operated 2 businesses, The Whirltop Drive Inn and The Rijinol Jewelry and China Shop from 1974-1978. Pat was truly a “jack of all trades”, as he also built and renovated several houses, even while working every hour of overtime that Boise Cascade offered to him!

In his retirement, Pat savoured every minute of his time on Taylor Bay, Lake of the Woods. He spent 13 glorious years fishing, snowmobiling, walking in the woods, cutting wood, and enjoying a beer or two. He also enjoyed memorable times with friends including snowmobile trips, time at the We Fest, card games and travel. Pat’s friends are truly special people, there are too many to mention specifically but his family is forever grateful for each and every one of you!

Pat’s family would like to extend a very special thanks to the following people who have been so helpful during Pat’s illness. Linda and Al Shannon, Conley Thayer, Revera Home Health caregivers especially Jael, Lisa, Mary, Joleen, and Aylssa, Martha Gerber, Mark Browman, Steve Beyak, Dr. Nelson, Dr. Bock, Irv Ballard and Joe Rodrigues and Dixie Baduik. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Laverandrye Hospital Foundation. A celebration of Pat’s life will take place at The Fort Frances Curling Club on Monday January 12, 2015 at 12:00-2:00 pm.

“Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.” Rest in Peace dear husband, dad, grandpa, and friend, your hard work is done, we will miss you every day.