Patricia Rose Anne Elizabeth Mary McKechnie

It is with great sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of our dear Pat, at St. Joseph’s Hospital on May 12, 2015. A lifelong resident of Hamilton, she was in her 64th year. Pat was the beloved wife for 37 years of Michael Kawchuk; a faithful support and caregiver throughout her battle with I.P.F. Cherished sister of Peter (Lucille), Rev. Sister Josie McKechnie, Anne Marie (Frank) and sister-in-law of Johnathan (Helen) and William (Lorelei) Kawchuk. Predeceased by her parents Cornelius and Elizabeth, brothers Neil and Hugh and in-laws Michael and Helen, Larry, and Ken Kawchuk. Pat will also be remembered as a fun-loving and dedicated aunt to several nieces and nephews and will be missed by many dear friends. She was a graduate of Bishop Ryan H.S. and Lakehead University; B.P.E. (Honours), B.Ed. In her younger days, Pat excelled in athletics - capturing many city records and championships in track & field, basketball, and volleyball. Pat was a great lover of cats (including the Ti-Cats), gardening, and “all things B.R.” In spite of her illness, she remained an integral member of the Bishop Ryan H.S. Alumni Association. We will miss her infectious smile and beautiful spirit, always and forever. Friends will be received by the family on Thursday, May 21, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Markey-Dermody Funeral Home, 1774 King St. E., Hamilton. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home (Rosedale Chapel), on Friday, May 22, at 11 a.m., followed by a reception. Cremation has taken place. The family wish to thank the staff of the FIRH, VitalAire and the St. Joseph team who cared for her in her final moments. Donations can be made to St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation (i.e., Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health [FIRH]) or the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA.