Mrs. Shirley Patricia O'Toole

It is with full but heavy hearts, that we announce the passing of the memorable and vibrant Pat O’Toole who peacefully took her final breaths in the company of her children on Wednesday morning. Pat is survived by her best friend and husband, John O’Toole, her pride and joy, her children, Kiara Okita (Dan Mikaluk), Randy Okita (Alison Herr), and Kerry Lynn Okita, her beloved Grandson, Madsen, and her ‘puppy’, Moodie.

Pat’s legacy is found in smiling memories of her playful humour, unabashed boldness, and startling generosity (or some combination thereof) recounted by family, friends, and the myriad other people whose lives Pat has touched throughout her young but full life. Simply unable to leave just a small impression, Pat’s presence in the world was felt in things like her unbridled musicality (reflected in her impromptu dancing, industrious use of makeshift instruments, and her melodic voice heard spilling out of karaoke bars near and far), her spontaneous instruction to friends and strangers alike (captured in unsolicited ‘tips’ such as how to offer a firm handshake or how to better behave as a child in a restaurant), and her uncanny ability to learn a stranger’s biography in a mere 5-minute conversation. Pat is also infamous for her love of taking pictures - she saw much of the world through her camera lens. She captured every moment and every bit of scenery with it, as she would not leave home without her camera. The hundreds of thousands of pictures that she took each year reflect a view of the world through Pat’s incredibly perceptive and expressive green eyes. Pat will be fondly remembered for all of this as much as for her constant smile and unmistakeable laugh, and for her one-of-a-kind and heartfelt hugs.

Pat considered her 2 year journey with brain cancer a gift, and spoke often of how lucky she was to have been surrounded by so many who cared about her. Ever grateful, we echo Pat’s gratitude in thanking the extraordinary team of specialists at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, particularly Dr. Easaw, Jenna, Frances, and Catriona, all of whom recognized and celebrated Pat’s immutable spirit. We would also like to thank Pat’s caregivers at Chinook Hospice, particularly Linda, Amanda, JR, Roxana, and Donna, as well as Dr. Tina, who took incredible care of Pat in her final days, and supported Pat in her every wish and need (as well as supporting us, her family, in our needs).

Uninterested in a solemn gathering, Pat preferred that her life be celebrated. In accordance with her wishes, a private Celebration of Pat’s Life will be held in the coming weeks. In keeping with Pat’s desire to help others, particularly women, in lieu of flowers, those so inclined are asked to contribute donations to the Women’s Centre of Calgary.