

Patricia leaves behind her children Dawn (Les) Bleskie of Ponoka, AB, Joe (Margaret) Myttenar of Blind Bay, BC, Paddy (Jim) Savage of Calgary, AB, and Heather (Rob) McNair of Japan; along with her grandchildren Carissa, Cassady, Candace, Bryon, Kristy, Florence, Stephen, Dan, Mark, John Gabriel, Kelly, Samuel and Sunny; and her great grandchildren Georgia, Kayden, Alyssa, Noah William, Leah, Noah Clark, Ivy, Emilie, Juno, Sofia, Mike, Layla, Dylan, Michelle, Tyler and Brandon. She also leaves behind her siblings Leslie, Louise, Alexis, David, Stanley, Victoria, and Denise; as well as many nieces and nephews whom she took under her wings.
Patricia was predeceased by her parents, Jean and Stanley; eldest sister, Jose; husbands, George and John; children, Stewart, Shawn and Louis.
Her namesake came about being born on Saint Patrick’s Day 1940, and of Irish descent. She emanated Irish charm, even getting her first tattoo at the age of 76 with a four-leaf clover and the name Granny. She was proud of this title.
Patricia and her sisters grew up on Canadian Forces Bases in Alberta and Ontario. Early on she learned to adapt to family military life, having to abide by the same regimental rules as military personnel while on base. It wasn’t long before the Burke girls became part of regularly planned events, singing and performing for the troops. She kept her father’s military legacy going as an active member of the Legion in both Branch and Ladies Auxiliary involvement stemming over 50+ years.
Patricia loved people and was passionate about volunteering. She dedicated her life to helping others, leading charitable fundraisers, acting as ambassador at seniors programs, helping out at food banks and even assisting at school functions. Not only did she give her time, but she also donated hand-crocheted and knitted items for raffles as gifts. She was a very special woman who gave selflessly to others and touched the hearts of many people. She only looked for the bright side of any situation and could find something to be glad about or laugh about. It was her upbeat, positive, giving and encouraging attitude that drew people to love her. She spread a lot of sunshine far and wide over the years. Even the weeks before her passing, she made a profound impact on the staff of Unit 84 at the Rockyview General Hospital.
Her family would like to thank the Palliative Team who took amazing care of her over the past year and whom she built some amazing friendships with. This team should be commended for their dedication to helping people with end-of-life care. As well, Unit 84 at the Rockyview General Hospital, you are outstanding individuals. You made her feel very special at a difficult time. She loved your compassion and caring nature.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, November 25 at the Ponoka Legion (Vimy Room) - drop in from noon to 4:00 pm.
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