Darling Grandpa Eric,
I first met you when I was 6 months old. Marcel and I would always worry you to play with us, and our favrourite game was you chasing us, screaming with laughter, around the house, saying ‘Who dat man ma?’ and we never got tired of this game. I remember so clearly, your rat-trick, with your white handkerchief, (that you always carried in your pocket). You kept us in giggles as the mouse jumped all over you. And then, no one forgets the broken thumb. And what about those exciting and ridiculous stories, we loved to hear over and over again, listening with awe and much anticipation for end.
It was so nice, that you, my Great Grandpa would walk me to Kindergarten every day. How many little girls will ever have that pleasure. 
And then every night, until the last night you would say “Sweet dreams, dream of me”. You would often tell me “You’re lucky, I am such a great Grandpa”. And yes I was lucky Darling Grandpa Eric.
You left me with many sweet memories and stories, that I will share with my little baby McKinley, your Great Great Grand daughter. 
I will always miss you. 
Sweet Dreams, my Great Grandpa Eric.
Your Maressa


Darling Grand pa, 
To say we miss you doesn't capture what it means to not have you around.  We think about you often- and sometimes forget that you're not there. But even though you are not around, you always find a way to put a smile on our faces. We smile about your sense of humour. We smile about your stories of your youth in the Navy. We smile about your baking skills and the hot-cross buns and the roly-poly pudding.  We also smile at the way you would tell us bread was cake, when we were younger.

Beyond the smiles,  we also remember the strong values you taught us, growing up.  You taught us the value of hard work, of being a go-getter.  We also learned from your youth- through your hardships growing up in a boarding school at Doctor Graham's Homes- like getting bacon and sweets, only once a year.
We love you and miss you.  But you are always with us. 
Love you Grandpa. 

Love- Tristan,  Ethan,  Bobbi-Jo and Jack.

DARLING GRAND PA ERIC, 
THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER WHO WILL TEAR UP THE DANCE FLOOR LIKE YOU AGAIN. 
THE FORM!!! THE TECHNIQUE!!!
THE PASSION!!!!   ................
6 DURNESS WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN. 
MISS YOU SO MUCH,  SPECIALLY AT EVERY PARTY OR  GET TOGETHER. 
YOUR MARCEL. 

Darling Daddy,
I am so happy that my two grand daughters, Aamaira  and Kairra, got to meet you and spend some very precious time with you.  I will always treasure the memory of these two little baby girls, screaming with laughter as they saw your famous handkerchief trick, the rat, jumping all over you.  And then they watched in shock as you did the broken thumb for them. All of us owe our baking skills to you. We will never forget how almost every Sunday we would gather around the table to make a roly-poly steamed pudding in that big dekchi, or dough nuts, or drop scones, or I could go on and on.  
I love you and I think of you very specially when I go to church or to the bank.
Your Patricia, or as you would call me, "Pretty". 

Darling Grandpa Eric,
I first met you when I was only 6 months old. I feel so lucky to call you "Grandpa". My brother Marcel and I loved to play with you. We would run all over the house, screaming with laughter, as you would chase us calling out "Who dat man Ma?".  You told us funny, scary and ridiculously far fetched stories, that we would beg you to tell us over and over again. 
You would walk me to school when I was in Kindergarten. And every night, when I went to wish you, you would say "Sweet dreams". You always said that I was lucky to have you for my Grandpa, and yes, you were right.  I was lucky to have you for my Grandpa. I will miss you.  Sweet Dreams Darling Grand Pa Eric.
 Your Maressa.


Darling Dad, 

I can only start by saying you were a kind of father that many, many did not have. 

You guided and inspired me and if only I had realized earlier, I would have squeezed much, much more from you and life Dad. 

Your lust for life and positivity, your magnanimity and regard for others around has rubbed off onto me a wee bit, for which I am very fortunate. 

You introduced me to two of my favourite bands, the Beatles and Pink Floyd amongst many, many more. Sport and the love for the outdoors came from you and you encouraged us no matter what. 

While I will miss you, I will always regard and remember that only I can make myself happy and spirited. 

I am a very, very privileged & proud son My Darling Dad… 
Peter.


This was not his only gift to us; there were many more along the way: his moral support, his drive, and his financial support greatly accommodated our needs as a band. “The Urge,” especially the three surviving members (Robert, Chris, and I) will remain ever grateful to the memory of the man to whom we owe so much.
	As Christmas draws near – we are just over a week away, I am drawn to the words of the song: “And so this is Christmas, and what have you done…?” If there is someone at the Pearly Gates asking this question of Uncle Eric; I’m sure he won’t be found wanting in making his case.
	To Aunty Connie, you have lost a husband; to Adele (my darling wife), to Claire, Christine, Peter, Patricia, Dwight (we miss you), Susie, Lawrie and Luke, you have lost a father, but more than that, you, and the world that knew Uncle Eric, lost a guiding star. Sailors, they say, in days of yore, were guided by the stars, Uncle Eric is now one of those stars that will guide us through our remaining years on Earth. Please allow me the honour of joining in your company as you remember his life, as it so impacted mine.
	Thank you, Uncle Eric, for your gifts to us all; may you rest peacefully till the time of our next meeting; bring your mouth organs, I’ll bring my guitar!
	Your son-in-law and friend forever,
	William (Soraine) 


I knew that he was becoming tired when towards the latter end, he couldn’t come down as often; though, he assured me, “I was singing in bed!” Talk about a love for music! 
	His musicality gave rise to his famous dance moves! Uncle Eric loved to dance; he especially loved to jive. It was more than likely that he’d be the first one on the dance floor, no matter what the genre of music being played; I’m going to miss that part of him at our future parties. In his earlier days, he could be found on the dance floor almost without a break, except when, in his words, it was “time to bend the elbow!”
	It was this love of music that drew Uncle Eric and I together. In the years when we first met, I must confess, I was trying to gain the attentions of his eldest daughter, Adele, my now wife. This bond of music between him and I, greatly helped my cause – the Fates of life were ordained! Uncle Eric was the catalyst in the drive that brought my band, “The Urge,” (Carlton Smith, Gautam Chatterjee, Christopher Thompson, Robert Orchard, and myself), into the limelight. Uncle Eric was never afraid to “go for it!” I remember the night we had just finished a gig at the Park Hotel. We were walking down Calcutta’s famous Park Street, when, passing Trincas, a famous night club on Park Street, Uncle Eric suddenly decided to go in and meet the owner. Minutes later, he came out with the news: “We have a gig here!” That was a dream for most upcoming musicians of the day! He did it all without us having to audition, or to even meet with the owners, such was his sway! We were on! That gig led to a lifetime of memories and fame, all thanks to the gutsiness of this great man…..Continued on next page….. 

Then there was the Uncle Eric on matters of opinion. Sometimes, to the chagrin of others, his opinions would run contrary to those in the main, but he always spoke his mind. Some said that he “loved to argue,” but that was him; he never even attempted to be “politically correct,” but he was honest in his opinion. His failing, if one could call it that, was that he always sought to say and do what was right, hence, his arguments always indicated the virtues he intended to extol. That was the argumentative Uncle Eric, a genetic trait passed on to most of his offspring, and to his “better half,” possibly through osmosis, I believe.
	Uncle Eric loved music with a passion. If there was any community singing to be had at a party, you could count on Uncle Eric to be at “the helm” of the goings-on; he was the starter, the “sabaash party,” and the last one standing. If there was an “open mike” session at a party, you could be sure that Uncle Eric would be one of the night’s performers. There was nothing of a musical nature that would not find Uncle Eric front-and-centre of the fun, for fun it was to be with him. “Connie, get my mouth organs; Willie get your guitar;” the night, for those present had begun in earnest. This anecdote would possibly demonstrate Uncle Eric’s love for music. Those who know me, would know that I tend to have longer music practise sessions on Friday nights at home. Whenever I wanted to get Uncle to come down to the basement (my practise den), I would begin playing all the oldies he loved: “Far Away Places,” “I Don’t See Me, in Your Eyes Anymore,” and so on. It was almost assured that within 5 minutes or so, of me doing these songs, I would hear him coming down the stairs – mission accomplished! He would come down, ready to grab the microphone. He’d sing his favourites, vamp away on his mouth organs; always thankful for the opportunity. 
……………….Continued on next page...…………...

Uncle Eric was a navy man, and as expected of all service personnel, he was very disciplined. Punctuality could have been Uncle Eric’s middle name – he would never dream of being late for anything; he was always “ready” a whole hour before “the event”! He was always exceptionally well groomed, “dapper,” as our friends would comment at our parties at 6 Durness, our home in Toronto. 
	Ever since I remember him, Uncle Eric was always fastidious with his work. He was the go-to man at his work in the cargo department in Pan Am; he loved his Pan Am uniforms! In later years, when Pan Am closed its doors in Calcutta, Uncle Eric worked at other ventures, but he was the same man. He fussed over the correctness of his accounting as a Church Officer at the Scotch Kirk, Calcutta, as the Cargo Manager for the Hare Krishna Society and with Balmer Lawrie Ltd. Work, to Uncle Eric, was akin to a religious belief; he treated all his work with a reverence; he got from it what he needed, but he gave it his all.
	Uncle Eric was a foodie of sorts; he enjoyed the idea of eating out. He was, however, preferential to certain foods, mutton being his meat of choice from the Indian cuisines. A lover of all things British, Uncle Eric was also very fond of the popular fish-n-chips, meat pies, and more of the like – possibly a fall out from his youth as a boarding student at Dr. Graham’s Homes, AKA Kalimpong Homes. At home, he was also particular about the punctuality of his meal times; he routinely had breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with rigid punctuality, a routine he rarely missed. What was noticeable amongst the family was that Uncle Eric was like a Jack Sprat, in that he “[ate] no fat,” while his wife of almost seven decades, Connie, could “eat no lean!” Even here, he showed, once again, a fastidiousness in his ways.
	……………...Continued on next page

Old soldiers never die, they simply fade away! That, in short, is the life of “Uncle Eric,” a man very dear to me. In every way, he was a big part of my life. 
	I chose to begin writing this memory piece today, specifically because it is Uncle Eric’s birthday (Dec. 18th); a good time to raise a glass in his honour; he would have been celebrating his 90th birthday with us! Wherever you are, Uncle Eric, here’s to you and the memories you have left imbedded in our lives.
	In 1968, I got to know Uncle Eric - that’s how I always addressed him. I met him in the place known to us Kidderporians as the St. Ignatius Parish Club; I was but a teenager. Little did I know how intertwined our lives were to become; he was to become my father-in-law, the father of my dear wife, Adele, his eldest daughter! 
	My first impressions of Uncle Eric were quite many, for he was such a man. People were automatically drawn to him, and for various reasons: he was a Lexicon of knowledge - a crossword wizard, an encyclopedia of world history – a great memory for historical events and such, an advertisement for healthy living - he’d walk miles and think nothing of it, not to forget his swimming exploits – diving from heights was his boast! Added to that, he was game for almost anything: he was a great ping-pong player (my formidable adversary on many occasion in club tournaments), playing cricket (wicket-keeper), soccer, or any sport with the teenagers was not a problem for the game Uncle Eric. And then there was his love of music. This is the point around which he and I built our greatest bonds! He was the catalyst that propelled our little known rock band – “The Urge” into the realm of notoriety in our world of live music, in the place we knew as home - Calcutta. 
...….................Continued on next page

He enraptured us with tales, from his exploits on the battle fields to his many facial expressions and tricks with sleight of hand he kept us entertained. Dad was a Social Media activist – a Facebook Junkie. Engaged in offering comment, compliments and arguing his opinions. He was a friend, confidant, source of joy. He was “A Man for All Seasons” standing by his principles whatever the cost. He taught us well and shaped our moral fabric to imbue his values. Imparting lessons at home, football fields, traveling the world, the dance floor. He took pride in what he stood for, where he was from and in how he presented himself. Kalimpong always lived in his DNA, making him an adventurer and active body that he was. In each of his children there are traits that will live on: adventurer, avid conversationalist, sport enthusiast, love for baking, music, dance, his passion, honesty, sense of dress & style. An ace swimmer called Johnny Weissmuller by his mates at school and the Navy. In the age of Vinyl and Paperbacks, he had the latest releases – he was the iTunes of his time. Our home was a collection of LPs and Novels to be shared, borrowed. At home you were always welcome with a cuppa at the Pattisons. Our home was always a hub of activity, a social club of sorts, where you could listen to music, share a joke or anecdotes. It figures, Dad made many friends over the years and likely impacted in some way or the other thousands more. Dad always had a way with words, always using apt phrases to describe the moment, impart a lesson or just make a point. There are many but one that always sticks: “Everyman Man for Himself and God For us All”. He was ever ready to help the needy, poor and less fortunate. During the 1978 floods in Calcutta, with no care for his own safety, swam back and forth in flood waters to rescue families. If that wasn’t enough he provided refuge to these families at home getting all of us involved, aptly articulated in another expression: All Hands on Deck.

Like a giant tree, magnificent and old, 
you stood strong and bold.
Though strait, never cut down, 
cause the love you spread, brightened the darkest ground.
Did we remember to thank you enough? 
For the smooth and the rough
Celebrating our successes and helping us learn from defeats.
And for the simple things like laughter, smiles and little treats.

When they talk about love, “they’ll talk about us".

Thru all those years, of smiles and tears
Do good, feel good, the teachings thru the years
To love without condition,
To teach with rendition, in this changing world.
To believe in your dreams, when the world will not.
And to believe in yourself, when it’s all you got.  
You taught, we fought. 
Some remembered, and some forgot
But thru it all, when I sort,

When they talk about love, "they’ll talk about us".

You went ahead and did, when the rest of the world hid,
“Thru hell or high water” Like you’d say, 
You showed us all, the love and passion in your blood.
You lived proud, loved strong, 
Worked hard and partied for long.
Bringing life to the party, even when the last had gone.

When they talk about life, "they’ll talk about us”.

Thank you for the life, love, football, treats, advise, parties, reality checks and ......... so much more. Miss you more, everyday we are apart.

Love and miss you, Dad.


My Eric was a very kind and loving husband.  He would help in the house work, and liked to see the place always tidy.  He liked things to be done immediately and not put off till later.  He would say don’t procrastinate.  His children were his world, although he would give them a talking to when they were wrong.  He was really broken when we lost our son Dwight.               
               
I miss you very much Eric.  I never imagined you would go before me and so suddenly.  You were looking forward to your 90th Birthday.  We had brought the date forward to October 25th, which would have been our 68th Wedding Anniversary, but you could not wait. All the children,  Grandchildren and Great-grand children came, but to a sad farewell. They miss you very much too.  Aamaira keeps asking for her Grandfather. 

You asked me to pray that you would go before me. I said I could not do it , and that you would have to do that on your own.

I hope you are happy with Dwight and there is no more pain.  You suffered enough. Hope you could let us know that all is well.  God bless you Eric and rest in peace, 

I will always love you.


Your loving wife, Connie


Rest in peace, Uncle Eric. Your amazing spirit will always live on!

Dearest Grandpa, 
I will fondly remember the last time I met you and Grandma in Toronto last year...you were so warm and welcoming..and I loved how you shared stories of your time in Delhi and Calcutta. 
Zubin has shared so many stories & anecdotes of you..and I feel like I've known you for years. We hope you are happy where are you are, and your looking down on everyone with a big smile, and your being taken good care of! 
Much love, Christine

Hey Grandpa...you handsome man! I'm glad to be a chip off the old block. I am so glad that till your last breath you ate whatever you desired and you drank with us when we drank; you played your mouth organ and enjoyed when music was played and sung. You were the life of a party, especially when you would play your mouth organ! You loved playing the fool with me and the rest of the family. I am going to miss you terribly, especially worrying you and spending time with you. Your void I know cannot be filled nor can it be replaced,  but the rest of the family and I will be there to love and support Grandma in your absence. I am fortunate to be part of this large family and that I got to spend so much time with you. I will miss seeing you in your Sunday best..looking all sharp. I will miss making tea for you, I will miss worrying you about the fast-food you enjoyed, I will miss you everytime I enter your room and the fact that you would always ask me to sit down, even before I entered the room properly! Who's going to tell me to have sweet dreams? And as much as I would tell you that I didn't want to dream of you, now is when I miss it the most. I love you Grandpa and may you be happy Wherever You Are. I am the with the rest of the family especially Adelle and Willie, to take care of Grandma. Love you always.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences on this irreparable loss. Uncle Eric is fondly remembered by all in Ekbalpore, May this great man rest in peace. 
In 1978 he was the first person to swim in the floods through the bustees in Mominpore and Ekbalpore to save lives.  


A toast to a generation lost. A fellow sailor boy who could drink, dance and cuss with the best of them. Generous , loving and to whose heart and hearth the door was always open. Such a life should not be mourned but celebrated. Here’s a man who’s definitely  not going to rest in peace. So fellas make your Dad Eric proud, give him a grand send off !!!  Aunty Connie, a hug from all of us….. What a reunion it must be with Dwight..

Goodbye Uncle.. My late Dad’s younger brother.. left us to be with our Lord the Father in heaven… Our heartfelt condolences to Aunty Connie and all my cousins, and other family members.  We cannot be with you in Canada but our hearts are grieving and we are with you during this loss which can never be filled. Your favourite niece is going to miss you Uncle…

I woke up early this morning to receive the sad news on the demise of dear Uncle Eric Pattison. My deepest condolences reach out to Aunt Connie, and the Family. I have really fond memories of Uncle Eric. He had such a great sense of humour and was a complete family man. I’m going to miss you Uncle. Please say Hi to Dwight for me. RIP. 

Uncle Eric wasn’t some who was content living life on the sidelines. He believed in jumping in with both feet. Speaking  plainly. Singing Passionately. Arguing  Vociferously. Dancing  spontaneously. Loving Liberally. Living Fully.  

It’s hard to have to let go Uncle Eric, may you find peace in your ultimate destination with beloved Dwight by your side.
You had an important presence in my life and I will miss you for it. Our long conversations, your trusting ear, your selfless love and the passion for music that we shared…. But you didn’t fulfill your promise of dancing the jive with me. Until we meet again… Farewell Uncle.


Darling Grandpa,

I am so grateful for so many memories with you. From when we were small and you’d take us on your morning runs and walk on your hands, or tell us stories about Dr. Graham’s homes and the nuns when there was loadshedding and we would all sit on the balcony on Sterndale road listening to the trams go by, or making us walk and walk and walk in Kalimpong. 
I am so grateful that you picked up with my kids without missing a beat! They got the full great-grandpa experience with you when they’d run into your room saying “scare us grandpa” and then you’d get up and go after them doing your “who dat man ma” routine. 
I’ll always remember you as the best dancer and how you enjoyed life so completely. 
I think of you every day. It seems like you’re just next door or maybe in another part of the world with one of your kids. 
I love you grandpa. 

Darling Uncle and friend,

It feels quite strange writing a memory for you because somewhere I keep thinking  you are ‘coming to visit us in India soon’ as usual, every year. 

Everybody knows the fun, gregarious and magnanimous side of you but I also got to experience the warm, kind and loving side as a dear friend. In all these years that I know Peter I realise that you were my biggest fan and took my side more often than his :))

Thank you for being fair, thank you for making me laugh, thank you for always bringing me Tuborg over Kingfisher ;), thank you for making me jive, thank your showing me that age is just a number, thank you for the open discussions and most of all thank you for loving me and making me feel like family, especially with your ‘my girl’ expression.

My only and deepest regret is not having you seated next to Aunty on our big day. But I know that you and Dwight will be having a drink and watching over us.

I'm taking the license to share a line from the poem you sent us after Dwight.
“What a view I have from here, I see your face I feel you near.
 I follow you throughout the day, you’re not alone along the way”

Till we meet again..
P.S: Hope you are having a party with Liz Taylor till Kritika Kamra lands up ;))




Darling Daddy I miss you immensely!  Miss your smile and joking manner. I always remember you when I bake my bread, make fish and chips and have that stinky blue cheese!   The life of any gathering. You were so proud of each one of us.   Still so difficult to imagine you’re not with us. All the photos and videos captured over the years are memories close to my heart but makes it that much harder.   Looking forward to  meet you on the other side.  ❤️

A late contribution I know but my sincerest condolences go out to the entire Pattison family on this  sad time. Those of us who knew uncle Eric would know that this exactly how he would have liked to go... surrounded by his loving family both in Canada and abroad. I believe he chose the exact time he wanted to make his exit...in typical uncle  Eric style...seizing the day as always. Here is a poem from Dylan Thomas that seems to resonate so aptly with the kind of man Uncle Eric was...

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
(Dylan Thomas, 1914 - 1953)


Darling Daddy, I want to share the beautiful memories you gave us.
I think about your childhood stories of your school in Dr. Graham’s Homes, in Kalimpong, India.  I will never forget the long walk up the hill side from Uncle Jim’s house to Dr. Graham’s Homes (your school), in Kalimpong. We were all so tired but it was nothing for you. You made us laugh with your gymnastic skills, walking on your hands which you did even for your great grandson, Marcel, at 73.  As Cargo Manager at Pan American Airlines, you took us onto the tarmac at the Calcutta Airport quite often. We knew quite a bit about the rules and regulations for export and import because of you. You was an excellent swimmer, showing off with your double somersault dives in the British Paints swimming pool and Marine Club. You played an excellent round of table tennis and won many tournaments, and very involved with any activity related to music or dancing. You played the mouth organ with great panache, and would burn up the dance floor with your swing and jive moves. You had an amazing knowledge of musicians and bands. You were very loving and devoted to Mummy, often sewing our outfits on the machine that Mummy would cut out for us. We learned to fix quick a few things because of you. I remember the old fashioned dough nuts, the gulab-jamuns made with condensed milk and baby milk powder, dripping with thick syrup, and the roly-poly steamed puddings, that we made with you almost every Sunday. We got our ‘sweet tooth’ from you, Daddy: fried bread with sugar or condensed milk, fried banana, fried anything, bread pudding and custard, not forgetting his all-time favourite, ‘Mixed Grill’. You had an endless supply of stories for us that were quite ridiculous, but so very exciting, and still remembered fondly by your grandchildren and great grand-children. 
Eric, our Daddy, loved life and just couldn’t sit still.  
Forever in our hearts. Till we meet again. Adele.


Dear GrandPa, 

I will always remember the fun person you were. Always smiling and always joking, no matter the situation you always had a big smile. The life of the party, always willing to dance and have a good time, must have been part of your training in the Navy! Thanks for all the fun memories. 

JP

A late contribution I know but my sincerest condolences go out to the entire Pattison 
family on this  sad time. Those of us who knew uncle Eric would know that this exactly how he would have liked to go... surrounded by his loving family both in Canada and abroad. I believe he chose the exact time he wanted to make his exit...in typical uncle  Eric style...seizing the day as always. 
Here is a poem from Dylan Thomas that seems to resonate so aptly with the kind of man Uncle Eric was...

Do not go gentle into that good night (Dylan Thomas, 1914 - 1953)

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Dear Eric,
Thank you for welcoming me into your family, and what a fabulous family, how could it be otherwise with such an irrepressible soul at its heart.
I treasure the trip you and I took to Kalimpong, I remember the geologist on the the train who got stoned and forgot his glasses, and the taste of the lassi as if it were last week.
I have countless images in my head of your face, tear-streaked with laughter and my friends adored you.
I am sure you made an impression on St Peter and  successfully persuaded him to turn the music up, I raise a dram to you .
Thank you for everything,
Fair winds and following seas Eric.





My darling Daddy 

I've taken so long to write because I can't put into words how much I miss you.  I am reminded of you everyday in  the things I do - when I cook, when I clean, when I hear a song, when I look at the hills around me where I live,  at a party.. . you were the life and soul and you always had something to say, advice to give, a story to tell..It didn't matter what the  subject was, you recollected your experiences, and you shared it with us.   We learnt from that  ..from your childhood stories, your days in the Navy, your experiences at work and the characters you met and how you dealt with situations.  All your personal stories had a moral, guiding us, making us strong and helped us believe in ourselves.  
You brought us up to love each other no matter what, that family is important and,  that loving your family  brings happiness .  

You always said to me, "My girl, you are my jewel".  I know you said that to all your girls, but You made me believe I was your jewel.  And I know I was  because you loved me, you loved us all,  and you were never shy of showing it or saying it.

I miss your smile, your laughter, seeing you all dressed up everyday- so dapper, the arguments, the jokes,  dancing with you,  -  it was you who taught us how to dance the Waltz, Fox trot,  jive,  charleston , cha cha cha....the way you welcomed people and made them feel at home

Thank you Daddy for everything, all you gave me, all you instilled.  I will miss you forever. There will never be anyone like you.  


Dear Adele, William and the rest of the family,
Our heartfelt condolences to all of you on the passing of your beloved daddy/father-in-law/grandfather/great grandfather. Though the news of your daddy's passing brought so much sadness, still we felt so privileged to have the opportunity to meet such an incredibly lovely and cheerful gentleman just weeks before God called him to his eternal home.  My first thought when I met Eric, for the first (and sadly only) time, was "now I understand why Adele is so proud and fond of her daddy." He introduced himself and was full of spirit and eager to know everyone round the table.  He chatted happily with me , and it did not take me long to recognize that this is a man who had the gift of putting people at ease with his warm and cheerful spirit, and most of all, with his interest in others. Adele, William and family, you all are very blessed to have a daddy/father-in-law/grandfather/great grandfather as friendly, gentle, and talented as Eric.  We (Ray and I) are also blessed to be able to have the opportunity to know such a wonderful person before God called him to rest.   God bless all of you. Eric will always be remembered by us fondly.
Love from Magdalene and Ray

Dad,
Words can not express how your passing affected all of us.  I will never forget how you welcomed me into the family, all your jokes, all your past time stories, your opinions, your computer problems, your heart and your smiles.  I hope you immediately get to see Dwight and my father in Heaven.  Until we meet again...I remain.
Angelo Cioffi

Grandpa Eric, 
You will be missed deeply, remembered fondly and thought of often. Your smile was infectious. No matter what you were going through, you always made sure to dish out endless compliments, tell silly stories, crack funny jokes and get the party started! I feel so lucky to have met you, and am thankful for the warm memories you’ve left us with. 
ox Mallory

Grandpa,
Saying goodbye was far more difficult than I ever imagined. When I look through your photographs, I can feel your radiant spirit which brings me comfort knowing you lived such a fulfilling life. You have left us with such fond memories. I enjoyed sitting quietly and listening to you retell the story of how you and grandma met, each time the story was a little different. Every so often, you would throw in stories of your childhood. I'll never know which ones were fact or fiction, but you reeled me in every... single... time!  It took me ages, but I'll never forget you telling me that the ones near and dear to you know it's always a one cheek kiss, not two! Grandpa, I'll miss your energy and your laughter. You were as sweet as the amount of sugar you put in your tea. I'll miss the opportunity to get to dance with you, but I know wherever you are, you're still the life of the party. 
Love Always - Rhea
ox

Dear Grandpa,
It was incredibly difficult saying goodbye to you over the past few weeks.  Your enormous personality, zest for life, and sense of humour leaves such a large void in our hearts and minds, that will not soon be filled.  It's with deep sadness that I think about you not being here, but with great happiness and reassurance when I see 'bits' of you in your sons, daughters, and grandchildren.  You will live forever within us, and inspire us every day to be better, more loving people.   I am so happy that you were able to meet Jett.  He gets his smile, laugh, and dance moves from YOU (albeit passed down a few generations).  
I'll love you forever and ever, and make sure that Jett always knows what an  AMAZING Great Grandpa he had.   We will speak about you at every gathering, and remember all the stories (real and fiction) that you left us with till the end of time.  Sleep well, Grandpa.  muah!  xoxoxo

Uri


Darling Daddy......You went too early, even at 89. You kept telling us that you would be with us until 95. We are all finding it hard without you but keeping it together for Mum, who needs us all right now. She'll be ok Dad, we will make sure of that.  I cannot thank you enough for my sense of adventure, my love for baking and my ability to try, fail and make the most of whatever comes my way. You've left me, our family and all your friends a lifetimes worth of wonderful memories.

Thank you Dad for supporting all my plans and encouraging me to forge ahead despite everything. I love you and will miss you everyday.  To ask you to Rest in Peace would be a tall demand as we all know how you love moving about, whether it be fixing something, travelling or dancing.....so stay at Peace Dad and watch over each one of us. Hope you've met up with Dwight....a big hug to him for us all.

God Bless and love you Forever DAD......You've left a huge void in the Pattison Clan!!!

All my love and hugs
Suzie

Hearing about your loss has deeply saddened me but I know that this is far from what you are going through right now. You are in my thoughts and prayers. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Aunty, you Adele and rest of the family.


What can we say about our dear Uncle Eric. A warm, loving, kind and compassionate soul. He drank life to the lees.  

I think one of the greatest contributions of Uncle Eric was the building of a strong and united Pattison family. It is amazing to see how all members of the family rally around to support each other in both happy and 'not-so' happy times. A family trait that we admire and respect. This bond, this love, this connectivity (call it what you may) can only flow from the top.  As the Head of the Family, Uncle Eric, we salute you.

Your spirit will live forever!

Charmaine & Ian
 

Dear Connie, Clair and Ishan, Adele and Willie and all the Pattison clan.  I am so so sorry for your loss. Eric was such a lovely man, such a bright spark, full of light-hearted energy. I loved how he loved to dance with his daughters.  I can imagine how much you will all miss him. Blessings and prayers and deepest sympathies and lots of love always. Gavin and Leah Barrett


Eric was the epitome of fatherhood, a great husband and true friend. His energy on the dance floor was infectious, as was his laughter and warmth. He will always be remembered as a great dancer and a social butterfly. Eric will be greatly missed but can never be replaced. It is with heavy hearts and tearful eyes that we bid him farewell, taking consolation in the fact that he rests peacefully in the loving arms of the Lord.
Our deepest sympathies to Connie, Adele, Willie, and all the family
John & Jenny

Dear Aunty Connie, Willie, Adele & the rest of the Pattison family:

My deepest condolences to you all. 

Uncle Eric had a wonderful life and lived it to its fullest.  I am so glad to have been a part of it. His humour and warm smile along with his unique  dancing style will surely be missed. The sing alongs will never ever be the same without him.

Rest in peace Uncle Eric

Karina and family

Dear Connie, Adele and the rest of the family.

We remember Eric as a wonderful  person and the life of the party.  He was so jolly and a great dancer.  I am sure he will be missed especially at all the parties where I would love to see him dance and the youthfulness in him.  God grant him eternal rest.

With deepest sympathies

Ron & Merlin Pereira


Our memories of Eric are fond ones.  He was the most jovial person, especially at a party.  He loved to jive, talk about his days at Dr. Graham's Homes, his beloved Calcutta and of course his family.  Eric was full of stories.  Newton especially loved and enjoyed working with him on a few occasions when he helped out with construction jobs.

His spirit will live on.  We will miss him.

To Dear Adele, Willie    Mrs. Pattison,  family and friends,

My deepest sympathy to all.

Eric was my e-mail buddy. He always made some remark in reply to my e-mails. Will miss you Eric.

Warren and Sheri send their condolence  to the family.

Maureen  

Dearest Connie & family,

Our deepest sympathy - Eric was the softest & gentle person, always willing to have fun - he will be remembered very specially as we celebrate his life - we will miss his lovely "spark" & "smile".  God Bless you and your dear family. Jackie & Jeff

Dear Adele, Willie. Mrs. Pattison and the rest of the family.
Please accept my condolences. Words are not enough at a time like this... we can only share in your sorrow... It was such a pleasure knowing your Dad Adele, he was a ray of sunshine at all the party's and community days and his sense of humour was unique.  May his soul rest in peace... my prayers are with you all... He will always live in your hearts.
Cheryl D'Croix

My sincere condolences to William, Adele and family. May Eric’s soul Rest In Peace.  Eric will be in my daily prayers.

Evelyn Eade
Friend  - AI  Association

OBITUARY

Eric William Pattison

December 18, 1928 – August 22, 2018

Giffen-Mack Funeral Home & Cremation Centre

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